Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared a public holiday after its national football team, the Leopards, qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.
The team secured a 1-0 win over Jamaica in extra time, thanks to Axel Tuanzebe's goal. This marks the nation’s return to the global stage since its sole previous World Cup appearance in 1974, when it was known as Zaire.
Striker Cédric Bakambu said he 'can’t wait' to return to capital Kinshasa and join the celebrations.
Fans in Kinshasa took to the streets, with supporters chanting 'Christiano Ronaldo is next.'
DR Congo’s first match is against Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, in Houston on 17 June.
The team will also face Colombia and Uzbekistan in the group stages of the expanded World Cup hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.