Axel Tuanzebe knows the weight of a nation rests on his shoulders. As the DR Congo defender prepares for the country's first World Cup appearance in over half a century, he carries not just the hopes of 116 million people, but also the scars of a humanitarian crisis back home. Despite the turmoil, Tuanzebe believes football can spark change. "I'm not a politician, but the joy that I can bring to Congo is through football," he told Sky Sports in an exclusive interview.
A Nation's Hope Amid Crisis
DR Congo's return to the global stage comes as the nation grapples with profound challenges. Decades of conflict, particularly in the mineral-rich east, have displaced millions and left communities struggling with poverty and limited access to food and healthcare. For Tuanzebe, the Leopards' success offers a rare source of unity and pride.
"I remember the first time I came back from my first camp and just driving through the roads, making our way to the hotel," Tuanzebe recalled. "Some of the places you see and you see now how people live, it was difficult to see. I just think people shouldn't be living like this, especially in the time that we're in now. There shouldn't really be famine. It's too much to bear."
The 27-year-old, who spent two years with the national team before qualifying for the tournament, has quickly become a national hero. His goal against Jamaica in the qualifiers sealed DR Congo's place at the 2026 World Cup, triggering euphoric scenes across the country.
The Weight of a Country
Tuanzebe's connection to the Congolese cause runs deeper than sporting glory. The Manchester United academy graduate sees his platform as a way to highlight the exploitation of his homeland's resources.
"I think a lot of the political issues we've had in the country stem from how the country has been exploited over the years because it's rich in minerals," he said. "The world shouldn't be like this. I think we have enough intelligence, enough resources around the world to ensure that everybody lives a comfortable life. But it's the world we live in. So all I can do is put my two cents in there as a footballer, and hopefully it can help make a movement or spark a change into a better life and a better world."
The centre-back's commitment is evident whenever he pulls on the Leopards shirt. The journey from the airport to the team hotel after qualification was a stark contrast to his first visit, with thousands lining the streets to celebrate their heroes.
Eyeing an Upset Against Portugal
DR Congo's reward is a group-stage clash with Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. First up is a daunting encounter against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, a side brimming with talent including several of Tuanzebe's former Manchester United teammates like Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot. Yet the Leopards are drawing inspiration from past World Cup shocks.
"We want a Saudi-Argentina-style upset against Portugal," Tuanzebe said, referencing Saudi Arabia's famous win over eventual champions Argentina in 2022.
Under coach Sébastien Desabre, DR Congo have undergone a steady transformation. Since reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, the team has grown in confidence and tactical nous. Now they aim to emulate the feat of the 1974 Zaire side, the first sub-Saharan African team to appear at a World Cup.
Quick Facts
Axel Tuanzebe: Born in Bunia, DR Congo; raised in England; Manchester United academy product.
DR Congo's World Cup return: First appearance since 1974 (as Zaire).
Qualifying heroics: Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal against Jamaica in the play-off.
Group stage opponents: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan.
Key Takeaways
- Axel Tuanzebe is using his platform to shed light on DR Congo's humanitarian crisis and the exploitation of its natural resources.
- His winning goal in the qualifiers made him a national hero and ignited celebrations across the country.
- DR Congo face a tough group but believe they can cause major upsets, starting with Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal.
- The team's progression reflects the steady work under coach Desabre, with the 2023 AFCON semi-final as a turning point.
- Beyond football, Tuanzebe hopes the Leopards' success can inspire positive change and bring joy to a long-suffering population.