Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has issued a passionate call to the national football team ahead of their decisive World Cup group stage match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta. The president’s message, posted on the presidency’s X account on Saturday, June 27, 2026, framed the encounter as a moment of national unity.
President’s Message of Unity
“This encounter is not just a football match. It is a moment of national unity, a moment when an entire people will look in the same direction, with the same passion, the same hope, and the same love for the flag,” Tshisekedi said. He emphasized that the team would have the backing of over 100 million Congolese, including families, youth, elders, provinces, diaspora, supporters, soldiers, workers, and children.
“I therefore call on all the Congolese people to mobilize, in unity, passion, and responsibility, to carry our Leopards toward the victory we all hope for,” he added.
Group K Standings and Stakes
DR Congo currently sits with one point from two games in Group K, following a 1-1 draw with Portugal and a narrow defeat to Colombia. To remain in the tournament, they must secure a win against Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, has lost both of their matches but could still advance with a victory.
Historic World Cup Return
This marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country was known as Zaire. Their path to the tournament was unexpected; they entered the playoffs for the best four runners-up in the African preliminaries after failing to qualify directly. The team’s progress to the knockout rounds would be a remarkable achievement given their recent struggles.
The match against Uzbekistan is set to take place in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The president’s rallying cry underscores the significance of the game for national pride and unity.
