Democratic Republic of Congo Aims for Historic Qualification to Uplift a Resilient Nation

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is on the brink of a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. On October 14, 2025, their national team, the Léopards, faces Sudan at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa. This match holds great significance for a nation that has endured over five decades of adversity.

A Moment of Symbolism

A victory would symbolize resilience and pride for a country ravaged by years of conflict, violence, and instability. The DRC national team currently ranks second in their qualification group with 19 points, trailing Senegal, which leads with 21 points.

Context of Conflict

While the stadium in Kinshasa prepares for the match, other regions in the DRC suffer from ongoing violence. In the eastern provinces, armed groups like the M23, reportedly supported by Rwanda, continue to wreak havoc. This has resulted in the loss of countless lives and the displacement of over 7.3 million Congolese.

• In 2024, over 100 civilians died in Nyanzale and Mweso due to mortar attacks.
• In November, 15 individuals were executed in Binza.
• The ADF, an armed group from Uganda, was responsible for massacring more than 200 civilians in Beni and Lubero.

The Role of the Team

Heading into the match, coach Sébastien Desabre expresses confidence in the team’s ability to qualify. He points to their strong performance: 14 goals scored and only six conceded. Each player understands that wearing the national jersey in such a context is more than a game; it symbolizes resistance and resilience.

A Rich Yet Troubled Nation

The DRC is rich in natural resources like cobalt and copper, yet the majority of its citizens do not benefit from these earnings. The mining industry often results in forced evictions and human rights violations. Furthermore, in 2023, over 133,000 cases of sexual violence were reported, impacting many young girls and women.

A Chance for Change

Qualification for the 2026 World Cup would mark the DRC’s first appearance since 1974, representing a potential turning point for a nation burdened by its tumultuous past. The players know that every goal scored against Sudan could resonate deeply across the nation.

Beyond the pursuit of glory, this match offers a platform for the DRC to assert its identity on a global stage. It serves as a chance to honor the millions of displaced citizens who feel forgotten. If successful, this historic qualification would not only be an athletic achievement but also an affirmation of national dignity and resilience.

Tonight, as the Léopards take the field at the Stade des Martyrs, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a nation yearning for change.