In the first group stage match of the FIFA World Cup, where they drew 1-1 with Portugal, Congolese (DRC) forward Yoane Wissa scored his team's first goal in FIFA World Cup history.
After the match, he spoke about the ongoing conflict in his home country and stated that the game meant more to the people of Congo (DRC) than just football itself.
Facing a Portuguese team that included Cristiano Ronaldo, Wissa helped the Democratic Republic of Congo national team secure a valuable point. In an interview, he could not hide his excitement.
“It was a great game, very tough, but I am truly very happy today. I appreciate the team's fighting spirit on the field. We were up against one of the best teams in the world, so we had to endure a lot of pressure. I am very excited right now; this result is incredible. I am happy for my teammates, the coaching staff, and my family,” Wissa said.
However, when discussing the significance of the match, Wissa shifted the conversation to his home country. In recent years, the eastern region of Congo (DRC) has been continuously affected by armed conflict, with a large number of people displaced and the domestic situation remaining unstable for a long time.
“You know, the situation back home is very difficult. Congo (DRC) is going through a war. This (the FIFA World Cup and this match) means the world to them. People only see what they want to see, but our people are very hardworking and very strong. So I am genuinely happy for them. I only pray for peace to come, and I hope everything goes well for them,” Wissa said.