As England prepare for their World Cup last-32 tie against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday afternoon, the Congolese president has delivered a stirring rallying cry to his nation’s players — a message that stands in stark contrast to the lukewarm words of encouragement from Downing Street.
Félix Tshisekedi addressed the squad directly during a speech marking the 66th anniversary of the country’s independence, telling them: “Step onto the pitch with the serenity of those who have already honoured the nation, but also with the audacity of those who know that history has not yet had its final say.”
“DR Congo's president delivers passionate rallying cry before last-32 World Cup clash with England in Atlanta.”
The president, who attended DR Congo’s group match against Portugal alongside Fifa president Gianni Infantino in Houston, urged the players to “play with discipline, courage, intelligence, and above all, without regrets.” He added: “You have already made the hearts of Congolese men and women beat faster … we continue to believe in you and in your ability to go further, to surprise again, to push back the limits of what is possible.”
England, who topped Group L, are aiming to put a second star on the shirt at this World Cup. But as Jacob Steinberg notes in his preview for the Guardian, it “would be pushing it to say they sailed through the group stage.” The surge against Croatia in Dallas has yet to be repeated, and while Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are performing in attack, “there are problems to fix in almost every part of the team.”
Thomas Tuchel, knowing the scrutiny that comes with this fixture, said: “Don’t start to doubt. The part where Tuchel earns his corn starts now.”
The banana skin in football form that Steinberg warns of is precisely what Tshisekedi hopes his Leopards will exploit. “Whatever the adversity, the Democratic Republic of Congo will accompany you with its fervour, its prayers, and its unwavering support,” the president said. “Step onto the pitch with the strength of an entire people united behind you.”