Cédric Bakambu: “I would trade anything” for World Cup qualification

Cédric Bakambu says he would “trade anything” to help DR Congo qualify for the 2026 World Cup, as the Leopards prepare for a decisive intercontinental playoff on 31 March.

The Democratic Republic of Congo will face either Jamaica or New Caledonia in Guadalajara, with a place at the World Cup at stake.

Speaking on the programme After Foot, Bakambu described the fixture as the defining moment of his international career.

“I would trade anything for qualifying for the World Cup with the DRC… It’s the pinnacle.

It would truly be a beautiful ending. It would truly be the perfect way to come full circle,” he said.

The striker acknowledged the weight of expectation surrounding the match, particularly given the broader security concerns that have been raised in Guadalajara.

Despite that context, Bakambu insisted his focus remains firmly on the sporting objective.

“There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about this game. There’s a lot of pressure, but that’s a good thing; it’s what drives me, what pushes me to redouble my efforts,” he explained.

For Bakambu, the playoff is not simply another international fixture but a chance to make history with a generation determined to represent the national flag on football’s biggest stage.

The forward’s comments reflect both personal ambition and collective responsibility as anticipation builds ahead of the encounter.

He also expressed confidence in head coach Sébastien Desabre and the squad’s ability to rise to the occasion. “I have faith in my teammates.

We will go there with our weapons, we will make our nation proud.”

With the date fast approaching, preparations continue as planned. For DR Congo and its supporters, 31 March represents a pivotal moment — one that could secure a long-awaited return to the global stage and fulfil a dream Bakambu says defines his career.