DR Congo President honors Leopards football team with national medals

President Félix Tshisekedi has decorated the DR Congo national football team, known as the Leopards, with the Order of the Leopard national medal. The ceremony honors the team following their historic performance and qualification for the World Cup in the United States, marking the country's return to the global stage after 52 years.

A total of 39 individuals were honored, including 31 players such as Chancel Mbemba, Gaël Kakuta, Dimitri Bertaud, Samuel Essende, and Henock Inonga Baka, as well as former FECOFA President Belinda Luntadila.

During the ceremony, player Yoane Wissa expressed gratitude on behalf of the squad, thanking the President, the government, and the football federation for their support. The recognition comes just two days before the team begins their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.