Kinshasa, June 14th, 2026 (CPA). – The head coach of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been described as the architect of the Leopards’ “renaissance” following their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the country’s return to the tournament after a 52-year absence, CPA learned on Sunday from the website of the International of Federation Association (FIFA). « Sébastien Desabre is leading the most fascinating rebuilding project on the African continent—the renaissance of the Leopards. His master stroke? Ending the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s 52-year absence from the FIFA World Cup and bringing the Leopards back into the global football spotlight while restoring national pride, » the website stated.
Sébastien Desabre surrounded by his protégés
According to the source, Desabre has earned the reputation of being the man behind the DRC’s revival on the international stage thanks to his philosophy of attractive, attacking and ambitious football, making the Congolese national team one of Africa’s most exciting sides to watch. However, the source noted that to extend the joy of millions of Congolese football fans, the Leopards will have to prove themselves against Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K.The Congolese side will also be expected to justify the praise bestowed upon the French tactician, who has followed in the footsteps of Yugoslav coach Blagoje Vidinić, the man who guided the DRC—then known as Zaire—to its first FIFA World Cup finals in 1974.