Advertisement
DR Congo declares national holiday after sealing historical World Cup qualification
01st April, 2026 05:49 PM
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has announced a nationwide public holiday to mark a historic football achievement, after its national team secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in over five decades.
The Leopards booked their ticket on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, following a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Jamaica in a playoff match, with Axel Tuanzebe netting the decisive goal during extra time. In response to the milestone, the country’s labour ministry declared Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a day off, encouraging citizens to celebrate together in a spirit of unity and national pride.
History in the making
This qualification marks DR Congo’s return to the global tournament for the first time since 1974, when the nation competed under the name Zaire. The tense encounter saw Tuanzebe break the deadlock deep into extra time, sealing a memorable win.
Scenes of jubilation erupted across the capital, Kinshasa, shortly after the final whistle in the early hours of Wednesday. Supporters flooded the streets, expressing joy and emotion, with many saying the victory offered a moment of pride despite the country’s ongoing struggles with conflict.
The nation has endured years of instability, particularly in its eastern region where fighting intensified last year involving the M23 rebel group. Even so, messages of congratulations poured in, including from neighbouring Rwanda, whose officials praised the team’s achievement on the continental stage.
Fans in parts of Kinshasa also turned their attention to the upcoming World Cup fixtures, chanting in anticipation of facing global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo in Group K. DR Congo is set to begin its campaign against Portugal in Houston on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, before taking on Colombia and Uzbekistan in the group stage.
The Leopards are among ten African nations that have qualified for the expanded World Cup tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
