News Focus
- DR Congo return to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1974
- Defender Axel Tuanzebe aims to bring happiness to a nation affected by war
- The Leopards face Portugal in their opening match on Wednesday
- Tuanzebe hopes to repeat Saudi Arabia’s shock win against Argentina
- The former Manchester United star switched international allegiance from England in 2024
The Democratic Republic of Congo are ready to step onto football’s biggest stage after more than five decades away. While conflict continues in parts of their homeland, the national team carries the hopes of 116 million people as they begin their World Cup journey.
Axel Tuanzebe stands at the heart of this mission. The defender, who once represented England at youth level, now wears the Leopards shirt with fierce pride. He believes the beautiful game can offer light during dark times.
“I am not a politician,” Tuanzebe told Sky Sports. “However, I can bring joy to Congo through football. This platform allows me to help my country take positive steps forward.”
The Manchester-born centre-back understands the weight of responsibility. DR Congo possesses vast mineral wealth, yet millions of citizens face poverty and displacement due to decades of fighting in the eastern regions. Tuanzebe sees this contrast clearly.
“People should not live like this,” he stated. “We have enough intelligence and resources in our world to ensure everyone lives comfortably. I will do my part as a footballer to spark change.”
The defender became an instant hero when his goal against Jamaica secured qualification. That strike transformed dreams into reality for a nation starving for success. Driving through the streets after that victory, Tuanzebe witnessed pure celebration as fans followed the team bus for miles.
Now the real test begins. DR Congo face a daunting opener against Portugal, a side packed with stars including Cristiano Ronaldo and Tuanzebe’s former Old Trafford colleagues Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot. Few expect the African side to trouble the European giants.
Yet Tuanzebe draws inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s stunning victory over Argentina at the last World Cup. “Portugal are among the top three favourites to win the trophy,” he admitted. “But we want to cause a major upset like Saudi Arabia did. We have no fear.”
The defender will line up alongside another former England youth international, Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Both players chose DR Congo over the Three Lions, adding quality to Sebastien Desabre’s squad. Tuanzebe’s decision came after long conversations with former international Yannick Bolasie, who convinced him the federation had improved its standards.
Despite growing up in Rochdale, Tuanzebe always felt Congolese. His father played music from Josky Kiambukuta and Koffi Olomide during car rides, while family meals featured traditional dishes like plantain and grilled goat meat.
The Leopards sit in Group H alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. While progression to the knockout stages would mark a huge achievement, Tuanzebe insists the primary goal is making their people smile.
“Whether we score a late winner against Portugal or simply show our best fighting spirit, we want to give Congolese people something to celebrate,” he said. “This tournament offers us a chance to put our nation back on the football map and inspire the next generation.”
The country’s president will watch from the stands as DR Congo play their first World Cup match since 1974. For Tuanzebe and his teammates, Wednesday’s clash represents far more than just a game.