DR Congo Eye Strong Start Against Portugal
Yoane Wissa believes DR Congo can rise to the occasion when they face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in their World Cup Group K opener on Wednesday.
The Leopards, returning to the tournament for the first time since 1974, have endured a long build-up, including a European training camp held against the backdrop of the Ebola outbreak at home.
They played friendlies against Denmark and Chile before arriving in Houston, where the humid conditions have posed an additional challenge.
Wissa, who previously faced Ronaldo in the Premier League, is relishing the chance to test himself against one of football’s greatest icons.
‘He scored a penalty against us, so this will be the third time I play against him. He’s an idol for every player, but tomorrow we’ll look him in the eyes and hopefully win against him,’ Wissa said.
The forward also praised the strong starts made by other African nations, including Morocco, Ivory Coast, Egypt, and Cape Verde, and expressed hope that DR Congo can continue the continent’s momentum.
‘What they have been doing is to show the world that African teams are good. Now we have 10 teams competing and for sure we have good quality. I’m really happy and pleased with the African teams so far.’
