Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared Wednesday a public holiday after the national football team qualified for their first World Cup in 52 years, according to the BBC. The Leopards secured their place in the tournament after Axel Tuanzebe’s extra-time goal gave them a 1-0 win over Jamaica in the play-off on Tuesday.

Historic Victory Sparks Nationwide Celebration

DR Congo’s ministry of labour and employment announced that the nation would have the day off work to “celebrate in unity, fervour and national pride,” citing the “historic” victory. This marks the first time the country has reached the World Cup since 1974, when it was known as Zaire.

The match against Jamaica was an intense affair, with Tuanzebe scoring in the 100th minute to break the deadlock — Fans in the capital, Kinshasa, celebrated into the night, expressing pride in their team’s achievement despite the country’s ongoing struggles.

One supporter told the BBC: “Whatever we may be feeling at the moment, amidst pain and war and occupation, this victory makes us proud… I feel so emotional and happy.” DR Congo has been battered by decades of conflict, with the M23 rebel group capturing swathes of territory in the country’s east early last year.

Football Fans Celebrate in the Streets

In Kinshasa’s neighbourhood of Kingabwa, football fans took to the streets chanting “Christiano Ronaldo is next.” DR Congo’s first match in the World Cup will be against Portugal, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, in the US city of Houston on 17 June.

The team will also face Colombia and Uzbekistan in the group stages. DR Congo is the 10th African nation to qualify for this year’s expanded World Cup finals, which are being hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The victory has been described as a significant moment for the nation, providing a sense of unity and pride during a time of continued challenges, while the declaration of a national holiday reflects the importance of the achievement in the eyes of the government and the people.

Football’s Role in National Unity

Football has long been a unifying force in DR Congo, and this qualification has brought people together despite the country’s ongoing conflicts — the match against Jamaica was not only a footballing triumph but also a symbol of resilience and hope.

Additional reporting from Emery Makumeno in Kinshasa highlights the emotional impact of the victory on the people of DR Congo. The nation’s football team is now set to take part in the global stage, representing not only their country but also the hopes and aspirations of its people.

The World Cup qualification has also brought international attention to DR Congo, with fans expressing their excitement for the upcoming matches, though As the team prepares for the tournament, the nation is looking forward to celebrating their footballing success.

With DR Congo’s first match set to take place in the United States, the country’s football fans are hopeful for a strong performance in the tournament. The qualification has already sparked a wave of national pride and unity, and the public holiday is a testament to the significance of this achievement.