Kinshasa, July 5th, 2026 (CPA) –. The president of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), Gianni Infantino, has praised on Sunday the resilience and historic achievement of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) during their participation in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, according to the organisation’s website.
“What a joy it is to see you stand up to the world’s best teams. You have clearly proved that you belong on the world stage,” it is read. According to the source, the head of world football has explained that DRC Leopards’ performances during the 23rd edition of the World Cup will have a major impact on future generations. Believing the source, Gianni Infantino has congratulated DRC Leopards for scoring goals against Portugal and England, whilst qualifying, for the first time in their history, for the knockout stage (the round of 16) of the FIFA World Cup.
DRC: a historic and commendable run
Drawn in a group alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan, the men of Sebastien Desabre were qualified for the knockout stages. This has been made possible in particular by a stunning 3–1 victory over Uzbekistan, marked by a brace from Johan Wissa and a goal from Fiston Mayele. DRC’s run therefore came to an end in the round of 32 against England (a 2–1 defeat), marking a historic campaign. Against England (ranked 4th in the world), DRC Leopards (43rd have performed a remarkable feat. Brian Cipenga has opened the scoring in the 7th minute, and Lionel Mpasi has made a string of saves, keeping hopes alive until the very end before the match ended in a 1–2 defeat. So, this performance in the tournament marks a triumphant return for DRC to the world stage, 52 years after their first appearance in 1974. CPA/