BBC News Afrique
·Jul 2026
What you need to know about DR Congo as they face England
DR Congo enters the 2026 World Cup knockout stages for the first time, rebounding from decades of absence since its difficult 1974 campaign as Zaïre. Under coach Sébastien Desabre, the team has strengthened defensively, improved tactically and relied on fast counterattacks led by Yoane Wissa and Cedric Bakambu. Key players include captain Chancel Mbemba and rising midfielder Noah Sadiki. Despite limited experience against top-ranked teams and concerns over club-level playing time, DR Congo advanced after drawing with Portugal, losing narrowly to Colombia and defeating Uzbekistan. Historical context highlights the team’s troubled 1974 experience and years of football decline, contrasted with recent rebuilding driven by diaspora talent and improved organisation.