Tshisekedi in Houston as Leopards Face Portuga

President Félix Tshisekedi has arrived in Houston, United States, ahead of DR Congo’s 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match against Portugal on Wednesday, June 17. The Head of State travelled with First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi and is expected to attend the Group K fixture at Houston Stadium.

The match marks a major moment for Congolese football, with the Leopards returning to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire. FIFA’s match centre lists Portugal vs Congo DR as a Group K fixture in Houston on June 17.

According to the Presidency, Tshisekedi’s presence is intended to show support for Congolese youth and strengthen national unity around the team’s return to global competition.

The Leopards enter the match against a Portugal side led by Cristiano Ronaldo, making the opener one of DR Congo’s most closely watched football moments in decades. A large Congolese diaspora turnout is also expected in Houston as supporters rally behind the national team.

Forward Brian Cipenga captured the mood before kickoff, writing on social media: “Audacity and joy are coming.” His message reflects the emotional weight of a campaign that many Congolese fans see as more than a football tournament.

DR Congo qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the intercontinental playoffs after defeating Jamaica, setting up a return that carries both sporting and symbolic importance. The team now begins its next challenge against Portugal, aiming to open a new chapter in Congolese football history.