“Reaching the World Cup 52 years on would be historic,” says Lionel Mpasi just days before the DR Congo’s decisive match

For the Congolese international goalkeeper, the Leopards’ qualification for the 2026 World Cup would be a historic moment for an entire country that has been waiting for this return to the world stage for over half a century.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is gearing up for the final of the 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-offs. With this crucial fixture scheduled for 31 March in Mexico, Lionel Mpasi has revealed his personal ambitions and the expectations of the Congolese people. The DR Congo Leopards’ goalkeeper believes that a place at the World Cup would be the crowning achievement of his career.

To play in the World Cup 52 years on – for the country alone, that would be historic. We know everyone is eagerly awaiting it. As a player, it would be the pinnacle of my career. Having played at the highest level in France and made my Ligue 1 debut, I could say I’ve seen everything there is to see in football. It would be a source of incredible pride.