2026 World Cup: Gedeon Kalulu fires warning as DR Congo vow to shock Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan

DR Congo defender Gedeon Kalulu has set an assertive tone ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the Leopards will not arrive in North America merely to make up the numbers.

The Central African side will compete at the expanded tournament hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada, marking a return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since 1974, when they featured as Zaire.

That historic campaign saw them become the first Sub-Saharan African nation to qualify, although they exited without a point. This time, expectations are markedly different, with belief growing around a squad rebuilt under French coach Sébastien Desabre.

Long road back to the global stage

DR Congo’s qualification journey has been defined by resilience and efficiency under pressure. After finishing second in their CAF qualifying group, they advanced through a demanding playoff pathway that included eliminating continental heavyweights Cameroon and Nigeria in the African play-offs.

Their progress continued in the FIFA inter-confederation playoff tournament, where they edged Jamaica 1-0 to secure their place at the expanded 48-team finals. It was a narrow but defining victory that ended a 52-year absence from the competition and reignited national pride.

The achievement has placed the Leopards among Africa’s most closely watched teams heading into the tournament, with expectations now shifting from qualification success to competitive impact.

Group K challenge awaits heavyweight tests

Drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan, DR Congo face one of the most demanding groups on paper. Their opening fixture against Portugal on June 17 will immediately test their defensive structure and tactical discipline.

Despite the challenge, Kalulu has dismissed any suggestion that reputation alone will decide outcomes. The Cypriot-based defender believes DR Congo can compete across all three matches, including clashes against South American opposition and European contenders.

Kalulu sets defiant tone for Leopards

Kalulu, who plays for Aris Limassol, struck a confident tone when discussing the scale of the challenge ahead, making clear that respect for opponents will not translate into fear.

“It doesn’t matter who we’re up against. It’s the World Cup, so we’re bound to come up against some big names,” Kalulu told FIFA.com.

“We’re there because we’ve got what it takes. We’ll have to look them in the eye, without being afraid or nervous.”

He expanded on the emotional significance of the tournament for players and supporters alike, highlighting the weight of expectation from a nation of over 100 million people.

“It’s the biggest competition of all, the one we’ve been watching on TV since we were little. We’re going to play for our blood, our roots – it’s incredible.

“It’s an extraordinary country, a country with a population of 100 million. 100 million people! I don’t think people even realise. It’s been 52 years – more than half a century – since the Congolese last experienced the excitement of the World Cup!”

On the group dynamics, Kalulu refused to single out Portugal or Colombia as clear favourites.

“We shouldn’t necessarily rank them below Portugal. Those two matches won’t be any easier than the first one.

“In any case, we know we’re not going to the World Cup with a team that’s a cut above the rest and will steamroller everyone.”

Tactical discipline and personal mission

Kalulu is expected to play a key defensive role in a backline that has shown strong organisation during qualification, conceding just once in their last five matches. Alongside experienced teammates such as Chancel Mbemba and Cédric Bakambu, the Leopards have developed a reputation for resilience and quick transitions.

“When we’re in the right frame of mind, it’s tough to beat us. We have a disciplined team that knows how to be patient,” he said.

“We’ve shown that we’re capable of sitting back, letting the opposition have the ball, and causing them problems when we win it back by surging forward quickly and in numbers.”

Individually, Kalulu is focused on using his physical strengths and work rate to influence matches if selected.

“I’m here to play to my strengths, without trying to be someone I’m not, and my strengths right now are my ability to drive down the wing, to run hard and to wear down my direct opponent.

“I’ll try to bring my positive attitude, but also my fighting spirit and determination. I hope to give it my all if and when the coach calls on me. I don’t have any other goals for this World Cup.”

He also reflected on the emotional weight of qualification for his family and the wider national significance of the moment.

“I had a chat with my three brothers and my sister after the list was announced. We realised something big was about to happen. Our surname will be known as far afield as the United States.”