Historic World Cup Qualification Sparks National Holiday in DR Congo
Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared Wednesday a public holiday following the national football team's qualification for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.
The Leopards secured their place in the finals on Tuesday when Axel Tuanzebe scored an extra-time goal, leading to a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the play-off match.
DR Congo's Ministry of Labour and Employment announced that due to this "historic" achievement, the nation would have the day off work to "celebrate in unity, fervour and national pride."
Background and Match Details
The central African country has previously participated in the World Cup only once, in 1974, when it was known as Zaire.
Tuesday's match was a tense and closely contested encounter, with former Manchester United player Axel Tuanzebe breaking the deadlock in the 100th minute during extra time.
Following the victory, videos of jubilant football fans celebrating in the capital city, Kinshasa, have been widely shared on social media. In the Kingabwa neighborhood, supporters took to the streets chanting,
"Christiano Ronaldo is next".
Upcoming Fixtures and African Representation
DR Congo's first match in the tournament will be against Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, in Houston, USA, on 17 June.
They will also face Colombia and Uzbekistan during the group stages of the competition.
DR Congo is the tenth African nation to qualify for this year's expanded World Cup finals, which are being hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Additional reporting by Emery Makumeno in Kinshasa.
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