A wave of passionate supporters from the Democratic Republic of the Congo has departed Kinshasa for Mexico, rallying behind their national team ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoffs.
Among those on board is fan-favourite Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, popularly known as “Lumumba,” whose electrifying presence went viral during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. He is expected to once again bring colour, rhythm and energy to the stands as DR Congo eyes a historic World Cup return.
The high-stakes playoff tournament—organised by FIFA—will run from March 26 to March 31, 2026, across venues in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico. Six teams from five confederations will battle for the final two slots in the expanded 48-team World Cup.
Ranked among the top two sides, DR Congo and Iraq have secured direct passage to the final round of their respective pathways.
In Pathway 1, set in Guadalajara, DR Congo will face the winner of the semi-final clash between New Caledonia and Jamaica.
Meanwhile, Pathway 2 in Monterrey will see Bolivia take on Suriname, with the victor advancing to meet Iraq in the final.
The two winners emerging on March 31 will seal qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, joining Group K and Group I respectively.
With fans already making the transatlantic journey and iconic supporters like Lumumba leading the charge, anticipation is reaching fever pitch as DR Congo prepares for a defining moment on the global stage.
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