"It's a good draw, because on paper we are the stronger side. We knocked out Cameroon and Nigeria so there's a chance we could take the game a little easier or come across as over-confident. But I think the way the manager Sebastien Desabre has got us playing there's nothing to take for granted. We need to make it to the World Cup because we haven't been there since 1974. That is a long time for a big African nation like DR Congo, and this is a massive opportunity."
"If we get to the World Cup, it will be huge for the country. The achievements of the players will then transpire into politics, the life of kids will be happier, the streets of Congo will be celebrating up until the day until the World Cup kicks off. No one has seen this happen for such a long time. This will bring peace, happiness, joy and something to look forward to. It will be so big for DR Congo."
DR Congo reached an inter-confederation play-off after eliminating Cameroon and Nigeria in continental play-offs, now facing either Jamaica or New Caledonia in Mexico for a 2026 World Cup spot. The team narrowly missed an automatic berth, finishing two points behind Senegal in Group B, and must win the winner-takes-all match to qualify for the expanded 48-team tournament. Captain Gabriel Zakuani urged caution against over-confidence despite a favorable draw and praised manager Sebastien Desabre's tactical progress. Qualification is framed as a transformative opportunity for national morale, youth hope and broader social uplift after decades of conflict.
Read at www.bbc.com
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