Sebastien Desabre, head coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) national football team, expressed confidence that an African nation will eventually secure a World Cup title. Speaking ahead of the team’s participation in their second-ever World Cup finals, Desabre highlighted the ongoing development of football infrastructure and talent across the continent.

The 49-year-old French coach, who has previously managed various clubs in Africa as well as the Uganda national team, pointed to the growth of football academies, local coaching expertise, and club organisation as key factors driving progress. “In Africa, we have very, very strong players and the organisation is growing, step by step,” he said, emphasizing that it is only a matter of time before an African team wins the tournament.

DR Congo’s current campaign marks their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country—then known as Zaire—competed in the group stage, suffering defeats against Scotland, Yugoslavia, and Brazil. This latest squad features Premier League players such as Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa, Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, and West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, all eager to improve upon the nation’s previous record.

The team faced logistical challenges ahead of the tournament due to an Ebola outbreak in central Africa, which restricted fan travel and resulted in the players undergoing three weeks of quarantine before departing for the United States. Despite these hurdles, Desabre noted the team remains professional and adaptable under difficult circumstances.

Their upcoming group match against Portugal, to be held in Houston—a city with a significant Congolese community including many refugees from past conflicts—is expected to draw strong local support. Desabre acknowledged the challenge posed by facing a highly ranked opponent but stressed the importance of focusing on the team’s strengths and making a positive start to the competition. “For us, 52 years later, it’s a real matter of pride,” he said.