Members of the Congolese diaspora across Yorkshire are preparing for a historic sports milestone on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, as the Democratic Republic of Congo faces England in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup.
The match marks the first time in history that the Democratic Republic of Congo has advanced to the knockout rounds of the tournament, following their last appearance 52 years ago in 1974 under the name Zaire.
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According to the BBC, the United Kingdom is home to approximately 30,000 Congolese nationals, with notable expat populations residing in Leeds and Sheffield.
Jacques Kalenga, a retired resident who moved to England in 1999 and works for the Tosalisana Congolese Community of Sheffield charity, expressed the significance of the upcoming fixture for the diaspora community.
"It is an honour for us to play England and the team have to expect something so we never know, [but] England is a big team, so we hope to surprise them," said Kalenga.
The Sheffield Hallam University graduate noted that the national team's modern football program has seen growing success, with 20 players on the current squad born outside of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
However, Kalenga admitted that the matchup between his birth country and his adopted home creates mixed emotions.
"I support both England and the DRC, but I hope for a good match and that the stronger team wins.
I will be pleased with either winning," said Kalenga.
