After Morocco-Brazil, France-Senegal and Argentina-Algeria, another poster for the first day of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup involves an African team: the Democratic Republic of Congo challenges Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal on June 17 in Houston. The Leopards obtained their ticket during the intercontinental play-offs in March, beating Jamaica (1-0 after, goal from Axel Tuanzebe).
The French coach of the DRC, Sébastien Desabre, knows his group perfectly, led by Lionel Mpasi, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Samuel Moutoussamy, Ngal’ayel Mukau and the offensive talents Théo Bongonda, Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa (who had withdrawn from the last African Cup of Nations).
The DR Congo will perhaps be strengthened by a gem of Belgian football! As indicated by Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, 18-year-old defensive midfielder Jorthy Mokio has decided to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo in the hope of being called up for the World Cup in North America. “It’s the player’s decision”it is added.
The DRC in the round of 16 of the World Cup?
The native of Ghent, trained at La Gantoise, has revealed himself at Ajax since last season and made his debut for the Belgian national team in March 2025. Rudi Garcia brought him into play during the Nations League play-off against Ukraine (1-3 defeat). The FIFA regulations are however clear: a player under 21 who is already international A can indeed change his sporting nationality but must wait three years before starting with another selection! The Belgian press therefore does not fully understand the information given by Sacha Tavolieri.
The Leopards have a small chance of reaching the round of 16 of the World Cup 26 since, after their first match against the Portuguese, they will then cross swords with Colombia, in Guadalajara, and Uzbekistan, in Atlanta.
