Lionel Mpasi believes DR Congo reaching FIFA World Cup would mark history
The Leopards are keen to return to the international tournament set for June 11th to July 19th 2026 hosted across sixteen cities with 11 in the United States three in Mexico and two in Canada.
This event marks the inaugural FIFA World Cup shared by three countries and features an increase to 48 participating teams up from 32.
DR Congo participated in the FIFA World Cup only once back in 1974 representing Zaire as the initial Sub-Saharan African side to advance. They ended bottom of their group having lost every one of their three fixtures.
Their first game resulted in a 2-0 loss to Scotland then a 9-0 defeat against Yugoslavia followed by a 3-0 loss to Brazil in their final Group 2 encounter.
Following a 52-year gap DR Congo guided by coach Sebastien Desabre now has a shot at rejoining the premier competition. To achieve this the Leopards must overcome the victor of the Jamaica versus New Caledonia clash in their play-off on March 31st.
DR Congo advancement would be momentous
“Participating in the World Cup following a 52-year wait would represent a landmark for our nation. We realise the public is keen for our success and for me as an athlete it would crown my professional journey,” stated Mpasi who features for Ligue 1 side Le Havre in an interview with FIFA.com.
“Should I earn a spot in a World Cup after establishing myself at the top tier in France and securing my initial appearances in Ligue 1 this season I would feel I have accomplished all my football ambitions. Considering my experiences I have much to take pride in.”
Regarding his anticipation for the FIFA play-off event he remarked: “I am eager to get started! Up to now I have concentrated on my games with Le Havre but once I reach Mexico the anticipation will build further.
“For an encounter of this nature additional incentive is unnecessary.”
Mpasi continued: “It will undoubtedly prove challenging. Although we rank higher than both teams in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking surprises can occur during play. I expect it to resemble our loss to Algeria at the Africa Cup of Nations a close contest hinging on minor elements.”
DR Congo needs to maintain faith
Mpasi born in Meaux in Pariss eastern outskirts to parents from Congo also reflected on DR Congos progress from the group stage despite trailing Senegal by two points.
“Through commitment and effort. We navigated two qualifying rounds topping our group for an extended period yet we failed to secure direct qualification in our second game against Senegal a 3-2 setback,” Mpasi explained.
“We felt let down but recognised the route to the World Cup was tough yet achievable. Victories over Cameroon and Nigeria positioned us just one step from the tournament. Belief is essential at all times.”
Addressing his status as the secondary goalkeeper under Desabre Mpasi who featured in every minute for the Leopards during the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco shared: “It presents an excellent test for me! I remind myself that training daily with a Ligue 1 team prepares me for any opportunity.
“This season at Le Havre has gone smoothly. The rivalry is intense. Sebastien might concern himself with my limited first-team outings but he trusts me and I respond by remaining prepared.”
When asked if DR Congo has analysed opponents Jamaica or New Caledonia Mpasi noted: “Some players share a Snapchat group and Cedric Bakambu our DR Congo forward shared clips from Jamaicas friendly against Nigeria on 31 May 2025 which Nigeria won via penalties.
“Given our familiarity with Nigeria it served as a valuable benchmark. We have less footage on New Caledonia but the priority should be concentrating on our game. We have substantial tactical preparation ahead in Mexico.”
The venues for World Cup 2026 Guadalajara Stadium and Monterrey Stadium will host the fixtures starting with semi-finals on March 26th and concluding with finals on March 31st.
Victors of each final will advance to the main event in June and July in North America. FIFA examines the competing sides and their paths to World Cup entry.
The Leopards placed among the top four runners-up in CAF qualification before dispatching established powers and World Cup regulars Cameroon and Nigeria to enter the play-off.