Axel Tuanzebe has added to the Man Utd flavour of the 2026 World Cup by ending DR Congo’s 52-year wait, carrying another former Red Devil in the process.
The World Cup has finally received all its 48 participating nations, and the expansion has led to some truly remarkable stories.
From a Man Utd perspective, DR Congo’s qualification for the World Cup is particularly sweet, for it is the maiden World Cup for two former players.
Axel Tuanzebe is the one who powered their qualification, and his teammate is also set to travel to his maiden World Cup.
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Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka qualify for World Cup
DR Congo faced Jamaica as their last hurdle before their World Cup dream became a reality.
Tuanzebe’s side were favourites on paper, ranked 48th in the world, compared to Jamaica’s 70th position in world football.
It was a cagey affair that was settled in extra time, as Tuanzebe scored in the 100th minute to give his side a 1-0 win.
It confirmed DR Congo’s presence at the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, and the first time ever under their present name.
The country participated in the 1974 World Cup as “Zaire”, while this will also be the first World Cup for Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Wan-Bissaka switched his allegiance from England to DR Congo after seeing his opportunities limited for England, the same as Tuanzebe.
Now they have powered DR Congo to their first World Cup of the 21st century by emerging as talismans.
DR Congo’s prospects at the World Cup
Tuanzebe is the architect of DR Congo’s qualification for the World Cup, but they face a tough group.
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They are alongside tournament favourites Portugal in Group K, with Uzbekistan and Colombia rounding out the four sides.
It’s fair to assume Portugal will finish as group winners, so Congo will have to beat Uzbekistan and upset Colombia to progress.
As always, Tuanzebe and Wan-Bissaka will be key to their chances, as they are the most high-profile players with top-level pedigree.
As it stands, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they continue this fairytale run at the tournament itself as well.
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