Kinshasa, June 28th, 2026 (CPA).- The qualification of the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta sparked widespread reactions on Sunday from both ruling coalition and opposition leaders, who praised the players’ achievement and acknowledged President Félix Tshisekedi’s support for the national team. « With Yoane Wissa’s brace, FATSHI’s Leopards have entered football history. For the very first time, the DRC has secured a memorable victory in the final phase of the FIFA World Cup. Congratulations to the players for their exemplary courage and to the coach for his tactical mastery. Our heartfelt congratulations also go to the first Congolese citizen, H.E. FATSHI, for his unwavering support in promoting our sport, » Foreign Trade Minister Julien Paluku wrote on X. Former Deputy Prime Minister Mobutu Nzanga hailed « a new page in history, » saying the qualification opens the door to even greater ambitions. « The entire nation is proud of you and stands behind you. Now let us aim for the world title. Go Leopards! » declared the son of Marshal Mobutu. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, for her part, paid tribute to the Leopards’ « courage, discipline and conquering spirit, » while Government Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya praised the « Leopard Spirit, » describing the performance as « heroic » and « historic. » Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Lihau said the qualification proves that « a new DRC is indeed possible. »
Ruling coalition and opposition united behind the Leopards
While on an official mission in Moanda, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Guy Kabombo celebrated the victory alongside soldiers of the 12th Military Region. According to the Ministry of Defense, « beyond sport, football unites people and makes hearts beat as one. » National Assembly member Eric Tshikuma also applauded the historic achievement. « History has been written. And it will be written again… Long live our Leopards. Bendele Ekweya Te, » he posted. Leading opposition figures also expressed their pride. Martin Fayulu congratulated the national team, saying: « Thank you to our Leopards! We are proud of you. Nothing is impossible for those who have courage and determination. Keep making all Congolese proud and continue to fly the DRC flag high. » Moïse Katumbi also celebrated the historic qualification. « Congratulations to our Leopards on this magnificent victory and qualification for the Round of 32! An entire nation is celebrating with you. Well done, boys! The journey continues. » Thanks to their 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, sealed by a brace from Yoane Wissa and a goal by Fiston Mayele, the Leopards qualified for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in the country’s history. Returning to the World Cup fifty-two years after their only previous appearance in 1974, the Congolese side will face England in the next round as they seek to extend their remarkable run in the 23rd FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.