World Cup 2026: Axel Tuanzebe reflects on DR Congo's historic achievement

Africa 11 April 2026 at 11:30

Aliou Toundé

News Editor

In an interview with the Burnley Express, Congolese defender Axel Tuanzebe looked back in detail at DR Congo’s historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup—a moment he himself describes as the pinnacle of his career.

A “historic” qualification for DR Congo

DR Congo had to endure a demanding journey, marked by intense clashes against Cameroon and Nigeria, before finally booking their ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Having scored the decisive goal in the playoff against Jamaica, Axel Tuanzebe did not hide his emotion:

It's probably the greatest moment of my career. Everything we experienced during these qualifiers makes this moment even more special.

For Tuanzebe, this achievement is above all the result of a disciplined group determined to write a new chapter in Congolese football history. The defender emphasizes the collective strength of the Leopards:

We knew what was at stake. The pressure was immense, but we stayed united and focused on our mission. (...) It's something that can truly unite the nation. We want to give the fans something they can be proud of.

A powerful statement, especially as DR Congo hadn’t competed at a World Cup since 1954, back when the country was still known as Zaire. Drawn into a tough group featuring the likes of Portugal, DR Congo is now preparing to take on a formidable challenge.

We know it will be tough, but we’re not going there as tourists. We want to show that DR Congo can compete.

Balancing personal pride and collective emotion, Axel Tuanzebe has become one of the symbols of the Leopards of DR Congo’s resurgence on the global stage.

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