Yohan Wissa Leads DR Congo to World Cup Round of 32 Against England

Yohan Wissa, a forward born in a Paris suburb to Congolese immigrant parents, has emerged as a key player for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) national team at the 2026 World Cup. Despite a challenging club season marked by injuries and limited playing time after a £50 million transfer to Newcastle United, Wissa has regained form and helped DR Congo reach the tournament's round of 32. The team will face England on July 3, 2026, in a highly anticipated match.

Wissa, who speaks Lingala and identifies strongly with his Congolese heritage despite being born in France, has been part of the national team for years. His playing style, fast, precise, and relentless, has been crucial in DR Congo’s surprising success, including a draw against Portugal and a two-goal performance against Uzbekistan. His 19 goals last season in England’s Championship with Brentford showcased his potential before injuries limited his impact at Newcastle.

Off the field, Wissa has overcome severe adversity, including an acid attack at his home that left him physically and mentally scarred but determined to continue his career. His resilience mirrors the struggles of DR Congo, a country grappling with dictatorship, corruption, and a severe Ebola outbreak that has complicated the national team’s preparations. The team spent 21 days in quarantine in Belgium before being allowed to compete in the United States.

DR Congo’s squad is composed mainly of players based abroad, many of whom are children of immigrants like Wissa. The team’s unexpected victory over Uzbekistan marked their first World Cup win since 1974, when the country was known as Zaire. Their upcoming match against England, featuring stars like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, will test their mettle. Despite being underdogs, DR Congo’s unity and Wissa’s leadership have made them a team to watch.

The national team’s passionate fan base includes a supporter who dresses as Patrice Lumumba, DR Congo’s first prime minister, symbolizing political protest and bringing international attention to the country’s ongoing challenges. Wissa’s journey from hardship to national hero exemplifies the spirit driving DR Congo’s World Cup campaign.