Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo – Didier Bodimbo, the Minister of Sports in the Democratic Republic of Congo, made fiery statements ahead of the anticipated match against Portugal in the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing his great confidence in his country’s team’s ability to achieve a resounding surprise.
Bodimbo’s remarks came during celebrations marking the Congolese national team’s qualification for the World Cup, where he said, “Cristiano Ronaldo should cry when he faces DR Congo.” This statement ignited the crowd’s enthusiasm and was met with loud applause and cheers.
The Democratic Republic of Congo secured their place in the finals after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in the continental playoff final, held in Guadalajara, Mexico, thus returning to the World Cup after a 52-year absence since their only previous appearance.
The “Leopards” team is scheduled to begin its journey in the tournament with a strong match against Portugal on June 17, in a match that football fans are waiting for because of its special competitive nature.
Presidential rewards and a legendary reception
As part of the celebration of the qualification, President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi announced that each player on the national team would be given a house and a car, in recognition of the historic achievement.
The president received the national team delegation at the People’s Palace, amid a great celebratory atmosphere, while the crowds took to the streets of the capital, Kinshasa, to welcome the heroes, as the open-top bus toured the city streets amid a massive public presence.
A historic comeback after 52 years
The qualification of the Democratic Republic of Congo represents a historic return for the national team to the biggest football event in the world, after more than five decades of absence, reflecting the magnitude of the achievement and the great ambitions before the start of the tournament.
Between fiery statements and great public support, the Congolese national team enters a new challenge in the World Cup, aiming to make a strong presence and leave a distinctive mark on the tournament.
