The Democratic Republic of the Congo will play its first World Cup match since 1974 against Portugal on Wednesday 17 June 2026 at 1 p.m. For this entry, the Leopards will have to compose without one of their most iconic supporters, Michel Kuka Mboladinga.

He became famous at the last CAN thanks to his inspired appearance of Patrice Lumumba, a historical figure of Congolese independence, and he will not be able to attend the meeting because of the health restrictions associated with the Ebola epidemic.

The health situation has also complicated the preparation of Congolese selection. The United States authorities imposed a strict protocol on the delegation prior to its arrival in the Territory. The Leopards, who completed their preparation in Europe, now remain focused on their challenge against one of the tournament's favourites.