Bakambu calls for “new era” as DR Congo celebrate World Cup qualification

Cédric Bakambu has called for a “new era” in Congolese football after the DR Congo national football team secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, sparking widespread celebrations in Kinshasa.

The squad returned home to a jubilant استقبال, parading through the capital as thousands of supporters gathered to welcome them after their successful playoff campaign.

The journey took the team from N’Djili International Airport to the esplanade of the People’s Palace in the Lingwala district, where a large crowd, including the President of the Republic, awaited their arrival.

During the reception, players were honoured with gifts including cars, houses and financial bonuses, reflecting the significance of the achievement for the nation.

Bakambu, addressing the moment on social media, used the occasion to highlight broader issues beyond football. “ However, I do not forget the pain and suffering endured by the east of our country, ravaged by wars and conflicts for far too many years. Every effort we make on the field, every moment of sacrifice, is also for them.

We carry their hopes with us, and every step towards the World Cup is a step towards hope for all the Congolese people. May this qualification not be the culmination of a mere sporting adventure, but the beginning of a new era.

It is an opportunity for all of us to come together, to invest ourselves, to modernize our sports infrastructure, to support our youth, and to promote sport in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The future begins today ,” he said.

On the pitch, the Leopards sealed qualification after a tightly contested playoff against Jamaica national football team. Under the guidance of Sébastien Desabre, the team maintained discipline throughout a difficult encounter, successfully limiting their opponents’ attacking threat.

The decisive moment came in extra time, when Axel Tuanzebe converted from close range following a corner delivered by Brian Cipenga, whose introduction proved influential.

The narrow victory highlighted the fine margins that defined the match, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock during regulation time.

This qualification marks a historic achievement for the Democratic Republic of Congo, ending a wait of 52 years for a return to the World Cup.

The accomplishment has been widely celebrated across the country, with supporters expressing pride in a team that has now secured its place among Africa’s representatives on the global stage.