Axel Tuanzebe hopes DR Congo inspires change during World Cup
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 11:04 AM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026

DR Congo is set to begin its first World Cup since 1974 against Portugal on Wednesday, as Axel Tuanzebe expresses a desire for the team's success to transcend football, bringing joy amidst ongoing conflict in their home country. The Leopards qualified after a playoff victory over Jamaica, and Tuanzebe aims to use this platform to address the humanitarian issues in DR Congo, emphasizing the impact of football on his nation's morale. He recalls witnessing the challenges faced by his people, including poverty and exploitation of resources, and stresses that collective efforts through football can catalyze change in the region.
- •DR Congo prepares for its first World Cup in 52 years on June 21.
- •Tuanzebe scored the goal that secured World Cup qualification.
- •The Leopards aim to upset Portugal in their opening match.
- •Ongoing conflict in DR Congo severely impacts daily life for millions.
- •Tuanzebe is committed to using football to advocate for his country.
"DR Congo are preparing for their first World Cup in over half a century, while a war is going on back home.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
Soccer•Jun 16, 2026, 11:20 AMIraq vs Norway preview: Solbakken gives Odegaard, Haaland fitness updates- Soccer•Jun 16, 2026, 11:07 AMFA chief outlines stance on Gianni Infantino’s controversial run for Fifa re-election
- Champions League•Jun 16, 2026, 11:04 AMGermany defender Antonio Rüdiger officially extends Real Madrid contract
Soccer•Jun 16, 2026, 11:04 AMFrance vs Senegal preview: Predict the score!
Champions League•Jun 16, 2026, 11:04 AMWhy Ronaldo's last World Cup chance with Portugal could be his best- FIFA World Cup•Jun 16, 2026, 11:02 AMLos Angeles Memorial Coliseum transforms for World Cup fan festival
