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FIFA World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo told he will “Cry” at 2026 World Cup by Congolese sports minister

Rajarshi has been part of Khel Now since 2022, and he covers world football.
Published at :April 7, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Modified at :April 7, 2026 at 7:28 PM
Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal FIFA World Cup

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Portugal will face DR Congo in Group K.

Didier Bodimbo, the Sports Minister for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, issued a strong warning to Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

After securing a thrilling qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Leopards have entered the international spotlight with newfound confidence and unwavering trust.

DR Congo ended their 52-year hiatus from football’s grandest stage last week when they narrowly defeated Jamaica in the international playoff final, which took place in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Fans flocked to Kinshasa’s streets to greet their heroes in a carnival-like environment as a result of the triumph, sparking wild celebrations back home.

Cristiano Ronaldo receives a stern warning from DR Congo

Top five goalscorers in World Cup qualifying history
LISBON, PORTUGAL – SEPTEMBER 08: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates after scoring his teams second goal during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A1 match between Portugal and Scotland at Estadio do SL Benfica on September 8, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images)

Group K of the competition will pit DR Congo against Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. On June 17, 2026, the Leopards will play their first high-stakes match against the European powerhouses.

Bodimbo said, with his confidence soaring:

 “Cristiano Ronaldo should cry when he faces DR Congo.”

As they get ready to take on some of the greatest players in the world, including Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, the phrase captures the Congolese camp’s growing confidence.

For DR Congo, the competition is more than simply an opportunity to compete; it’s an opportunity to have a worldwide impact.

DR Congo have achieved a significant milestone by qualifying. They are now among the 48 top teams that will compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The opportunity to compete on the biggest football stage in the world and possibly write a new chapter in the nation’s sporting history is a huge reward for the arduous and lengthy journey to this point.

DR Congo’s audacious remarks and restored self-assurance will set the tone for their campaign as the June 17 deadline approaches. It remains to be seen if their bold comment translates into on-field performance. But one thing is certain: the Panthers are going to the World Cup with confidence, aspirations, and a strong sense of national support.

Which group is DR Congo in?

They are in Group K.

Which will be their first game in the World Cup?

Their first game will be against Portugal.

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Rajarshi Shukla
Rajarshi Shukla

After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.