‘Allez Les Léopards’: Congolese fans send World Cup luck after 52-year wait

DR Congo’s World Cup wait ends today, and Congolese fans are sending one clear message before kickoff: Allez les Leopards.DR Congo opens Group K play against Portugal today at Houston Stadium.The match marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance in 52 years. The country last played in the tournament in 1974, when it competed as Zaire.For Congolese fans, the return is about more than the scoreline. It is a chance to see the Leopards back on the sport’s biggest stage after generations of waiting.Offrande Kabanzi, a Congolese fan currently living in Virginia, said DR Congo’s return to the World Cup is deeply meaningful."We haven’t been in one in like 52 years," Kabanzi said. "So obviously, this one is really special to us."Kabanzi said the moment matters because it brings both Congolese football and Congolese culture to a global audience."Not only because our football and our culture will be taken to a World Cup level, but also as a football fan, this is the most incredible and amazing competition we can play," Kabanzi said.Kabanzi said two players he is especially excited to see are Chancel Mbemba and Yoane Wissa.Mbemba is one of the most recognizable leaders in the DR Congo squad, while Wissa gives the Leopards an attacking threat as they begin a difficult Group K schedule.DR Congo is in a group with Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.As the Leopards begin their World Cup run, Kabanzi said Congolese fans are excited to see the team represent the country."We’re really excited about it," Kabanzi said.His message to the team was simple."I’m wishing all my Léopards best of luck," Kabanzi said. "Allez Les Léopards."After facing Portugal, DR Congo will continue Group K play against Colombia on June 23. The Leopards will close group play against Uzbekistan on June 27.