Yoane Wissa knighted after World Cup heroics as Newcastle revival gathers pace

DR Congo forward Yoane Wissa has been awarded the country’s highest national honour after playing a starring role in their historic 2026 World Cup campaign.

Wissa was among the DR Congo players made Knights of the Order of the Leopard, equivalent to a knighthood in the British honours system, following the country’s return to the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.

The Newcastle United striker scored three goals in four matches at the tournament, including a historic equaliser against Portugal that sparked widespread celebrations in DR Congo.

His performances have also helped transform his fortunes at club level after a difficult first season at St James’ Park.

Wissa joined Newcastle amid high expectations but saw his debut campaign disrupted by injuries. He managed only one Premier League goal as his fitness problems prevented him from establishing a consistent run in the side.

His World Cup exploits, however, provided a significant turning point.

The 30-year-old returned from the tournament with renewed confidence and has carried that momentum into the 2026-27 campaign, earning praise from Newcastle supporters for his improved form under head coach Matthias Jaissle.

Wissa comes close to England heartbreak

Wissa also came close to becoming the latest DR Congo player to haunt England at the World Cup.

With DR Congo leading 1-0 in their round-of-32 meeting, the Newcastle forward struck the woodwork from close range in the 42nd minute.

England eventually recovered, with Harry Kane scoring to spare the Three Lions from an embarrassing defeat.

Despite missing that opportunity, Wissa had already established himself as one of the leading figures of DR Congo’s memorable campaign.

The achievement was particularly significant given the country’s long wait to return to football’s biggest stage. DR Congo had last appeared at the World Cup in 1974, when they competed under the name Zaire.

Wissa’s contribution has now been formally recognised alongside the rest of the national team squad, including former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba.

World Cup helped change Wissa’s fortunes

Wissa has previously acknowledged that his World Cup experience played a major role in helping him overcome the physical and mental difficulties of his first season in Newcastle.

Speaking in August, the striker reflected on the challenges he faced since moving to England and credited his World Cup run with helping him regain confidence in his body and ability.

“It’s been very, very difficult for me since I joined the club. But now everything is in the past.”

Wissa admitted the struggles had affected him physically and mentally but said his experience with DR Congo helped alter his mindset.

“To get through this, it’s probably the World Cup that really helped me to change my mood and trust myself, trust my body.”

The forward also revealed that his preparations ahead of the new campaign had gone particularly well.

“I had a good pre-season. The last three months have been amazing for me, so that’s why today I am very happy to be here.”

For Wissa, the national honour provides another landmark moment after his World Cup breakthrough, while his resurgence at Newcastle suggests the forward has moved beyond the difficulties that overshadowed his first season on Tyneside.