DRC President urges Leopards to fight for 2026 World Cup qualification
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup now rest on the play-offs after finishing second in their qualifying group.
The Leopards ended their campaign with 22 points, two behind group leaders Senegal, who secured automatic qualification with 24.
Sébastien Desabre’s side narrowly missed a direct ticket to the tournament but will have another chance to reach the global stage through the African play-offs — a path that could end the nation’s 52-year absence from the World Cup since their last appearance in 1974.
Following the Leopards’ 1-0 victory over Sudan at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa on Tuesday, 14 October, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo visited the team in the dressing room to express his appreciation and motivate them ahead of the next stage.
You still have a chance to make up for it in the play-offs. I have complete confidence in you. Give it your all on the pitch to secure this qualification, but above all, stay focused, the President told the players.
His words came as a timely boost for a squad that has shown resilience throughout the qualifiers, finishing strongly despite missing out on top spot by a narrow margin.
The government’s support has been a constant presence during the Leopards’ campaign, and the President’s direct involvement highlights the importance placed on qualifying for the 2026 edition of the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The African play-offs, scheduled between 13 and 16 November in Morocco, will feature runners-up from the various qualifying groups in a mini-tournament format established by FIFA.
The eventual winner will advance to the intercontinental play-off, where a final qualification spot will be at stake.
According to provisional arrangements, the DRC could face Cameroon in their opening match, though the official fixtures will be confirmed once FIFA releases the updated world rankings later in October.
For the Leopards, the challenge ahead is clear — to channel the momentum of their recent performances and maintain the discipline and determination that carried them through the qualifiers.
The road to the 2026 World Cup remains open, and under the watchful eye of both their coach and the nation’s leadership, the DRC will be aiming to write a new chapter in their football history.
