DR Congo's Brian Sipunga Scores Stunning World Cup Goal After Nearly Signing with Beitar Jerusalem

Brian Sipunga, the DR Congo forward who recently scored a remarkable goal against England in the World Cup round of 32, was close to signing with Israeli club Beitar Jerusalem two years ago. At the time, Beitar's Almog Cohen and Barak Itzhaki were eager to bring him on board and offered him a salary three times higher than what he earned at Portuguese club Paços de Ferreira. However, Sipunga's partner vetoed the move due to security concerns in Israel. Despite efforts by Miguel Silva and Beitar fans to persuade him, Sipunga declined and instead signed with Spanish second division side Castellón. In January, he transferred to another Spanish second-tier club, Almería.

The 28-year-old did not play in DR Congo's first two World Cup matches but was given 72 minutes against Uzbekistan, where he impressed before scoring his notable goal against England. His journey highlights a near transfer to Israel that ultimately did not materialize, preceding his rise on the global stage at the World Cup.