Abdulhafiz TeslimYoane Wissa etched his name into DR Congo’s history by scoring against Portugal on Wednesday.
Celebrations erupted across Kinshasa, the capital city, as Wissa and his teammates booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals earlier this year. Those celebrations continued after DR Congo held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their Group K opener, frustrating Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese favourites.
Yoane Wissa has emotionally opened up about his life “flashing” before his eyes after creating DR Congo history.
On Wednesday, the Newcastle United striker equalised against Portugal to become his nation’s first-ever goalscorer at a FIFA World Cup. DR Congo last competed as Zaire in 1974 and secured qualification against Jamaica earlier this year.
‘I can’t believe it’ – Yoane Wissa
Speaking to CAF, Wissa could not hold back his emotions, revealing a heartfelt phone call with his mother after the full-time whistle.
He said: “What did I feel? My whole life flashed before my eyes. I had waited for this moment for decades, just like the entire country.
“I saw myself again as a little boy dreaming of becoming a professional footballer. Emotionally, it was incredibly powerful. I still can’t believe it. I called my mother after the match and she couldn’t stop crying.
“I know my name will remain part of history. My mother means everything to me, and so does my father. We are three brothers and we are very close. Playing for DR Congo is a way of honouring their sacrifices.”
Yoane Wissa pays tribute to DR Congo supporters
Wissa also paid tribute to the DR Congo supporters, insisting the World Cup journey is theirs to enjoy.
He added: “This World Cup is for them. Many people still don’t know much about Congo.
“We already felt that support during the play-off against Jamaica in Mexico. I want to say a huge thank you to the supporters because they had a massive impact on our performance.”
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Abdulhafiz Teslim