When DR Congo plays Portugal in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday at Houston Stadium, head coach Sebastien Desabre has urged his team to play fearlessly.
The Leopards, formerly known as Zaire, will be making their second World Cup appearance since their debut in 1974.
In 1974, they were the first country from sub-Saharan Africa to qualify for the world competition, making history. Under French coach Desabre, DR Congo qualified for the 2026 tournament after more than 50 years.
The Leopards defeated Jamaica 1-0 to win the FIFA Play-Off Tournament in Guadalajara, securing their much awaited comeback. DR Congo was placed in a fiercely contested group with Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan in the 2026 competition.
Portugal, who have made nine FIFA World Cup qualifications since making their debut in 1966, will be their first opponent. Portugal’s best result was a third-place finish in 1966, however they have never won the competition.
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