Matongé neighborhood in Brussels gears up for Congo's first World Cup match in 52 years

The Matongé neighborhood in Brussels is alive with anticipation as Congo prepares to play its first World Cup match in 52 years against Portugal tonight. The excitement is palpable, with local businesses capitalizing on the historic event.

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This is such an important event. We cannot miss this.

Philomena, a vendor in the Matongé gallery, has seen a surge in sales of Congolese flags and T-shirts. She notes that while few flags are visible elsewhere in the city, the Matongé district is gearing up for a significant display of national pride. "Wait and see. Soon we will decorate the whole street," she promises, pointing to a box of flags. Her football shirts are selling rapidly, a testament to the community's enthusiasm for their team's return to the World Cup stage after a 52-year absence.

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Wait and see. Soon we will decorate the whole street.

Congo's previous World Cup appearance was in 1974, when the team competed as Zaire. Philomena, who was only 8 years old at the time and lived in Congo, has few memories of that event but is eagerly awaiting tonight's match. She is helping organize a large public screening on the Waversesteenweg, expecting a massive turnout and a festive atmosphere akin to celebrations back home.

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I can guarantee you that the atmosphere will be at least as good as in Congo.

While some individuals in Matongé are also showing support for other African teams like Senegal and Cameroon, the focus remains firmly on Congo. Gaël Atumesa, an artist and founder of the cultural center Kongolya, is opening his center to screen the match. Although not a football enthusiast himself, Gaël recognizes the importance of this event for the community, especially for the youth who draw joy from football. He believes it's crucial to provide a space for people to come together and support their national team.

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Of course I support Congo when they play. It's my country.