World Cup 2026: DR Congo star Yoane Wissa proud despite elimination

DR Congo international Yoane Wissa has reflected with pride rather than disappointment following his outfit elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Leopards were kicked out of the global tournament on Wednesday after succumbing to a 2-1 defeat to European powerhouse England in the round of 32.

Despite the disappointment of exit, Wissa views the campaign as a success story rather than a failure, highlighting the unity and identity built by the squad throughout the tournament.

“I’m not disappointed today, because the impression we left was perfect,” Wissa said. “I’m proud of this bunch of mates; I’m proud of this squad that the manager selected and moulded in his own image!”

His words reflect a strong sense of collective achievement, with DR Congo earning admiration for their organisation, spirit, and fearless performances against more established football nations.

The 2026 World Cup campaign was a breakthrough moment for DR Congo national football team, who advanced beyond the group stage and into the knockout rounds for the first time in their modern football history.

Their run captured attention across the football world, with the team showing resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking intent that surprised many observers. Even in defeat, the Leopards earned widespread respect for their competitive displays.

Wissa was one of the standout performers, delivering key goals and leading the attack with confidence. His performances symbolised the team’s transformation into a more structured and dangerous side on the international stage.

For Wissa, the most meaningful outcome of the tournament was not personal statistics, but the global recognition earned by the country and its football identity.

“The Congo is now on the map of international football,” he added.

The forward emphasised that the team’s impact extended far beyond results, pointing to the visibility gained by the national anthem being heard on the world stage and the exposure of Congolese football to new audiences.

Wissa also revealed that his greatest pride did not come from scoring goals, but from representing his country in a way that resonated globally.

“My greatest honour is not having scored the DRC’s first ever World Cup goal, nor having scored three goals, but having made our national anthem ring out across the world…”

His emotional reflection underlines the symbolic importance of DR Congo’s campaign, which he believes will inspire future generations of footballers from the country.

While elimination brings an end to their tournament run, DR Congo’s performances have laid a strong foundation for the future. The squad’s unity and emergence on the world stage are expected to boost confidence heading into upcoming continental competitions and qualification campaigns.

For Wissa, the experience represents more than just a tournament—it marks a turning point in how DR Congo is perceived internationally.

The Leopards may have exited the 2026 World Cup, but as their forward insists, they leave behind something far more lasting: a nation newly recognised in world football, and a team that proved it belongs on the global stage.