We did it – Moutoussamy reflects on a dream fulfilled as DR Congo reach 2026 World Cup

Samuel Moutoussamy stood at the heart of DR Congo’s triumph, his words carrying both relief and a lifetime of ambition after the team secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a decisive win over Jamaica.

“I’ve always had that dream; I’m not going to lie to you,” said the midfielder.

For Moutoussamy, the journey began long before the celebrations. From his earliest days in football to the pivotal step of joining Lyon’s youth academy in 2011, the vision was clear and unwavering.

That dream, shared with his family, was simple yet monumental: to one day play on football’s grandest stage.

“I’ve had that dream ever since I started playing football. The very day I signed with Lyon’s youth academy (in 2011), my family and I had told each other that the dream was to play in a World Cup. We did it.”

The achievement marks a defining chapter not only in Moutoussamy’s career but in DR Congo’s football history.

After years of near misses and rebuilding, the Leopards have finally broken through, earning their place among the world’s elite and reigniting pride across the nation.

As the final whistle confirmed qualification, emotion spilled across the squad.

For Moutoussamy, it was the culmination of a journey shaped by belief, discipline, and shared sacrifice—a reminder that even the most distant dreams can come into reach with time.

Now, with the World Cup ahead, the focus will inevitably shift to new challenges. But for one night at least, DR Congo can celebrate a simple truth: the dream has been lived.

The Leopards will be in Group K, alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.