Former D.R Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani confident of 2026 World Cup qualification after playoff draw

Former D.R Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani says the national team has every reason to believe they can book their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after receiving what he considers a favourable inter-confederation playoff draw.

The Leopards stunned the continent earlier this month after eliminating Cameroon and Nigeria in the African playoffs, victories that have placed them one win away from a long-awaited World Cup return.

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Zakuani expressed confidence while urging the team to avoid complacency.

“It’s a good draw, because on paper we are the stronger side. We knocked out Cameroon and Nigeria so there’s a chance we could take the game a little easier or come across as over-confident,” he said.

He stressed that despite their impressive run, nothing should be taken for granted.

“But I think the way the manager Sebastien Desabre has got us playing there’s nothing to take for granted,” he added.

For Zakuani, the significance of the moment cannot be overstated. The Leopards have not appeared at the World Cup since 1974, a 52-year absence he believes must be ended.

“We need to make it to the World Cup because we haven’t been there since 1974. That is a long time for a big African nation like DR Congo, and this is a massive opportunity.”

The interconfederation playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled for March 2026.