Legia Warsaw’s formidable defender, Steve Kapuadi, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for selection to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) national team. Expressing his fervent desire to don the revered Leopards jersey, Kapuadi’s bid marks a significant development in the buildup to the forthcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The announcement of Kapuadi’s intention to join the Leopards comes as a welcome revelation, with the talented central defender poised to bolster Sébastien Desabre’s squad ahead of pivotal fixtures on the international stage.
Speaking to the press, Kapuadi revealed that his desire to represent his homeland has been a driving force since his formative years in 2015, and now, with the maturity gained through his professional journey, he feels the time is ripe to answer the call of duty.
Reflecting on his journey towards national selection, Kapuadi articulated his unwavering commitment to the cause, stating, “Since AFCON 2015, I have looked at the national team with a different eye than that of a simple fan
. I wasn’t yet a professional at the time but the emotions felt at that time made me want to play for the Leopards one day.
I have the ambition to become a Congolese international and if the coach decides that I can bring something more to the national team or another event, then it will be with great pleasure.”
At 26 years of age, Kapuadi boasts a wealth of experience gleaned from his tenure in various European leagues, with stints in Belgium and Slovakia preceding his current tenure in the Polish first division with Legia Warsaw.
His journey is emblematic of perseverance and dedication, qualities that are sure to resonate with fans and selectors alike as the DRC national team prepares for the challenges that lie ahead on the international stage.
As anticipation mounts for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Kapuadi’s declaration serves as a testament to the enduring allure of representing one’s country on the grandest stage of football, embodying the hopes and aspirations of a nation in pursuit of glory.