DR Congo star Fiston Mayele admits pressure in World Cup qualification bid

DR Congo international Fiston Mayele has admitted pressure ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup playoff slated for March 2026.

The Leopards triumphed over Nigeria in the final of the African World Cup playoff in Morocco, earning them a slot for the intercontinental playoff next year.

The Central African football powerhouse are just one win away from securing qualification to the global showpiece for the first time since 1974.

In an interview, Mayele, who plies his trade for Pyramids FC in Egypt stressed his outfit cannot wait for the playoff, while admitting pressure ahead of the games.

“We can’t wait to play this playoff match in March. There will definitely be pressure because it’s a match we absolutely have to win.

“It will not be easy. Personally. It’s a dream of mine to play in the World Cup. Our group is united; there’s a true friendship. We stay in touch even when we’re at our clubs. With this harmony, even God makes things easier for us.”

DR Congo will now face either Jamaica or New Caledonia in a winner-takes-all encounter in Mexico next March.