Cedric Bakambu vows to lead DR Congo back to World Cup after 51 years
Veteran striker Cedric Bakambu says he remains confident that the Democratic Republic of Congo can end their decades-long wait for a World Cup appearance, despite a recent setback in the qualifiers.
The Leopards sit second in Group B of the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers, two points behind Senegal, with four matches left to play.
The 34-year-old forward, who opened the scoring in the 3-2 home defeat to Senegal on September 9, insists that belief within the squad remains strong as they chase a first World Cup qualification since 1974.
“We’re still on track even though we lost against Senegal. Where there’s life, there’s hope,” he said, reflecting on that painful defeat to the Teranga Lions in Kinshasa.
Bakambu, who has netted three goals and provided two assists during the campaign, is also closing in on DR Congo’s all-time scoring record — just three goals shy of the mark.
The Real Betis striker says personal milestones are secondary to his dream of leading his country to the world’s biggest stage.
“It makes no difference if we qualify for the World Cup directly or through the play-offs. The target is still the same. It won’t be easy, but we’ll do everything in our power,” he affirmed.
Acknowledging the quality of their opponents, Bakambu praised Senegal as the continent’s benchmark team.
“For me, Senegal is the best team in Africa. You could sense it on the pitch. They know all about playing on the biggest stage in the world. Nobody can say that Senegal didn’t deserve to win.”
With matches against Sudan and Togo still ahead, Bakambu says the squad’s unity and determination could yet see DR Congo return to football’s grandest tournament after 51 years of waiting.
