The Super Eagles’ loss to Democratic Republic of Congo has been cited as a major reason why England must be wary of The Leopards during Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 clash, Sports247 reports.
The Leopards stopped Nigeria’s second chance of making it to the first World Cup to be co-hosted by three countries when they stole a shock win via penalties’ shootout during the African play-off final in Morocco.
Before defeating the Super Eagles, DR Congo’s squad of migrants and underrated England-based players also pulled off a shock victory over The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, who have an almost equal pedigree with Nigeria at the World Cup.
Memory is also still fresh with how England struggled to a goalless draw against Ghana in their second match of this year’s Mundial, which was the same result they got against Nigeria at the 2002 edition co-hosted by Korea and Japan.
All those results have now been taken into perspective ahead of Wednesday’s clash in Atlanta, with a major reference made to the fact that DR Congo spoilt the last hope held by Nigeria to ‘steal into this World Cup through the backdoor.’
A report by UK’s Daily Mail adds, “DR Congo come in at 41, which is a place higher than Scotland and is five places higher than they were before they came from behind to beat Uzbekistan on Saturday to seal their progress.
“They drew with Portugal in their opening game of this World Cup and beat Senegal back in January in the Africa Cup of Nations. In World Cup qualifying, they (spoilt it) for Nigeria and Cameroon.
“(The Leopards) also recorded a goalless draw with Denmark in a pre-tournament friendly. So, this will not be a walk in the park for Thomas Tuchel and his team. With good reason, England will certainly need to shape up.”
Sports247 gathered further that Congo’s number one citizen, President Tshisekedi told the players, “Step on to the pitch with the serenity of those who have already honored the Nation, but also with the audacity of those who know that history has not yet had its final say.
“Play with discipline, courage, intelligence, and above all, without regrets. Whatever the adversity, the Democratic Republic of Congo will accompany you with its fervour, its prayers, and its unwavering support.”
