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DR Congo reaches World Cup for first time in 50 years, fueled by Belgian talent

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • DR Congo will play in a World Cup football match for the first time in 50 years, facing Portugal in Houston.
  • The team's qualification is a significant boost for Congolese football, with many players having Belgian roots.
  • This achievement is particularly meaningful for fans who have waited decades to see their national team compete on the world stage.

The national football team of DR Congo is set to make its first World Cup appearance in half a century, a momentous occasion for the nation and its fans. The team will face Portugal in Houston, marking a significant milestone as Congolese football emerges from a period of decline.

Football analyst Gilles Mbiye-Beya, who will be covering the match for Sporza, shared his personal connection to the event. "My father, who is retired, will join me in the studio. It's so beautiful: he is retired, has grandchildren, and will now see Congo play in a World Cup for only the second time." The previous appearance was in 1974 when the country was known as Zaire under President Mobutu.

My father, who is retired, will join me in the studio. It's so beautiful: he is retired, has grandchildren, and will now see Congo play in a World Cup for only the second time.

— Gilles Mbiye-BeyaFootball analyst Gilles Mbiye-Beya shared his personal excitement about watching DR Congo play in the World Cup with his father.

The team's journey to the World Cup has been a remarkable feat for the 48th-ranked FIFA team. They overcame strong opponents, including Nigeria, and secured their spot by defeating Jamaica in the final knockout match. The squad features several players with Belgian ties, such as defender Chancel Mbemba and forward Noah Sadiki, who are key starters. Other players with Belgian connections include goalkeeper Mathieu Epolo, defender Joris Kayembe, and forward Théo Bongonda.

This success is partly attributed to a shift in mentality among diaspora players who now increasingly choose to represent Congo. Former professional footballer Paul Beloy noted that Congolese-Belgian players are now on par with their Belgian counterparts, a stark contrast to his own playing days when he felt he had to choose Congo out of necessity rather than strong competition. The presence of players like Romelu Lukaku, who has Congolese heritage, further exemplifies the growing talent and recognition of Congolese footballers on the international stage.

I see Congolese footballers hesitating between Congo, Belgium or the country where they play. That is different from before.

— Paul BeloyFormer professional footballer Paul Beloy commented on the increased willingness of players with dual nationality to represent DR Congo.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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