DR Congo Prime Minister Celebrates Historic World Cup Journey Despite Loss to England
Emotional Tribute to the Brave Leopards
Atlanta [US], July 2: Judith Suminwa Tuluka, the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the national football team following their narrow 2-1 defeat against England in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Wednesday.
Despite the disappointment of the loss, Tuluka commended the players for their remarkable achievement of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, stating that their efforts have inspired countless individuals across the nation.
In a post on the social media platform X after the match, the Prime Minister expressed her immense pride in the team's determination on the global stage.
She wrote, "Brave Leopards, tonight's outcome does not diminish your bravery, sacrifices, and the pride you have instilled in our people. While it wasn't the result we desired, it should not overshadow the significant accomplishments."
Tuluka continued, "By qualifying for the World Cup after 52 years, you have achieved a historic milestone. Throughout this tournament, you have represented our country with honor and reignited the dreams of millions of Congolese. Your journey deserves respect and admiration, and it will be remembered as a symbol of a generation that dared to dream big."
In closing, she encouraged the team to remain optimistic about the future, stating, "Keep your heads held high. The greatest stories are often forged through challenges. The nation stands proud of you. Thank you for creating this remarkable chapter in the history of Congolese football."
DR Congo showcased an impressive performance in the knockout stage before narrowly succumbing to England. Brian Cipenga opened the scoring in the seventh minute, netting his first international goal after a swift counterattack.
The African team frustrated England with disciplined defense and aggressive pressing, limiting their chances while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made crucial saves. They went into halftime with a well-deserved 1-0 lead in their first-ever World Cup knockout match.
In response, England's manager Thomas Tuchel made attacking substitutions in the second half, bringing on Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka, followed by Eberechi Eze as they ramped up the pressure.
Captain Harry Kane finally broke through DR Congo's defense in the 75th minute, scoring from close range after sustained pressure. He sealed the comeback with his second goal in the 86th minute, leading to a 2-1 victory and securing England's place in the Round of 16 against co-hosts Mexico.
Although their journey ended in defeat, DR Congo surpassed expectations in the tournament. They began their Group K campaign with a 1-1 draw against Portugal, faced a narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia, and advanced to the knockout stage with a remarkable 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, marking the most memorable World Cup run for the country in over fifty years.