The 1-1 draw secured by the DRC Leopards against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal sparked a wave of jubilation in Goma on the evening of Tuesday 17 June. In several neighborhoods across the city, hundreds of residents took to the streets to celebrate this result, which many regard as a remarkable achievement for a Congolese team returning to the World Cup 52 years after its last appearance.

From Majengo to Trois-Lampes, via Mutinga, Entrée Président and the city centre, scenes of jubilation continued late into the night. Young people, adults and the elderly sang, danced and waved Congolese flags as the impromptu processions passed by.

The match had, however, got off to a poor start for the Leopards. Portugal opened the scoring in the 6th minute through João Neves. Although dominated early on, the Congolese nevertheless found the resources to level the score before half-time thanks to Yoane Wissa.

After the half-time break, the Leopards took control of the match, dictating the pace and launching wave after wave of attacks against a less enterprising Portuguese side. More aggressive in one-on-one challenges and better organized as a team, the Congolese dominated the second half, creating several dangerous chances before holding on to their lead until the final whistle.

As soon as the final whistle blew, several main roads in Goma were flooded with jubilant supporters. In some neighborhoods, members of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which currently controls the city, also joined the crowds in the festive atmosphere.

“We didn’t think we’d be able to compete with a team like Portugal after such a long absence from the World Cup. This result makes us very proud,” said Des Anges Kahambu, a mother we met in Trois-Lampes, in the Mabanga-Nord neighborhood.

At the Mutinga terminus, the atmosphere remained festive for much of the evening. Many young people dressed in the national colors were dancing to the sound of car horns and the chants of supporters.

“A draw against Portugal feels like a victory to us. It gives us a lot of hope for the rest of the tournament,” said Essaie Sibanza, a resident of the Murara neighborhood.

According to a psychologist from Goma who asked to remain anonymous, these moments of collective celebration play an important role in the population’s well-being.

“In a context marked by crises and tensions, football offers a space for social cohesion and psychological relief. People need these moments of joy. However, young people must avoid risky behavior, particularly speeding on public roads,” he emphasized.

Since Tuesday morning, a palpable sense of excitement had been evident in several parts of the city. At Birere Central Market, traders reported an increase in sales of shirts, flags and other merchandise bearing the Leopards’ colors. For many residents, this result is already one of the most memorable moments of this World Cup.

Written by Victoire Katembo Mbuto

Caption: Supporters of Goma in the streets after the winning of Congo national team. Photo by Victoire Mbuto