For the first time in more than half a century, DR Congo are preparing to step onto the FIFA World Cup stage once again.

Their return to football's biggest tournament comes after decades of waiting, and for forward Yoane Wissa, the moment represents both a personal dream and a chance to showcase the growing strength of African football.

The Leopards begin their World Cup campaign against Portugal, one of the tournament favourites, in a match that will also see Wissa come face-to-face with Cristiano Ronaldo once again.

Learning Before Playing

Unlike many teams who were thrown straight into the action, DR Congo have enjoyed a unique advantage before their opening match.

The squad spent an extended preparation period in Europe, where they held a training camp and played friendly matches against Denmark and Chile before arriving in Houston.

The build-up was far from straightforward, taking place against the backdrop of the Ebola outbreak back home, but it also gave the players valuable time to study the tournament and understand the level required to compete on the world's biggest stage.

Having watched the opening 20 matches of the World Cup, Wissa believes the experience has helped the squad prepare mentally for what lies ahead.

"You feel lucky because you have time to watch every team and understand the competition," Wissa said.

"We've seen the intensity, the quality and what it takes to perform at this level."

With kickoff approaching, excitement is beginning to replace anticipation.

"We feel a little pressure now, but we're really looking forward to it."

Respect for Portugal, No Fear

DR Congo's first challenge could hardly be tougher.

Portugal arrive as one of the strongest teams in the competition and are widely considered genuine contenders for the trophy.

Wissa knows exactly how difficult the task will be.

"Portugal are one of the best teams in the world," he admitted.

"I think they are competing to win the World Cup."

Because of that, the Newcastle United forward believes DR Congo must match their opponents physically, mentally and emotionally if they hope to produce an upset.

"We need to be strong in every aspect of the game."

Another Meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo

One of the most intriguing storylines surrounding the match is Wissa's reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo.

The pair previously faced each other in the Premier League when Wissa was playing for Brentford and Ronaldo was in his second spell at Manchester United.

Now, they will meet again on the biggest stage in football.

Wissa still remembers their previous encounters.

"He scored a penalty against us," he recalled with a smile.

"This will be the third time I've played against him."

Despite the challenge ahead, Wissa is embracing the opportunity rather than being intimidated by it.

For him, Ronaldo remains one of the greatest inspirations in football.

"He's an idol for almost every player."

"But tomorrow we will look him in the eyes and hopefully we can beat him."

Proud of Africa's Strong Start

The opening days of World Cup 2026 have already delivered encouraging signs for African football.

Morocco, Ivory Coast, Egypt and Cape Verde have all produced impressive performances, helping raise expectations across the continent.

Wissa believes those results are proving an important point to the rest of the football world.

"What African teams have done so far is show everyone that African football is very strong," he said.

With ten African nations competing at this expanded World Cup, the DR Congo forward feels the continent has never possessed more depth or quality.

"We have talented players, strong teams and we deserve to be here."

"I'm really happy with what the African teams have shown so far."

Now he hopes DR Congo can add their own chapter to that growing success story.

A Journey Worth Appreciating

For Wissa personally, the World Cup represents another milestone in a career that has required persistence and patience.

After an injury-affected season with Newcastle United, simply being fit and ready for football's greatest tournament is something he refuses to take for granted.

"It is a huge privilege."

"I never take anything for granted, so I'm very happy to be here."

The moment carries special meaning not only for him, but also for the people who supported him throughout his journey.

"This means a lot to me, to my family and to everyone who has helped me along the way."

As DR Congo prepare to return to the World Cup spotlight after more than 50 years away, Wissa knows the scale of the challenge ahead.

But standing opposite Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal, he sees opportunity rather than fear.

For him, and for an entire nation, this is more than just a football match.

It is the beginning of a dream many thought would never return.