Despite facing numerous hurdles—including 13 qualifying matches, a pre-tournament quarantine due to an Ebola outbreak, and the ongoing instability from decades of conflict—this war-torn nation is making a significant impact on the global football stage.

"It's not easy in our country," stated Yoane Wissa, whose two goals propelled his team to their first-ever World Cup victory against Uzbekistan and set the stage for a showdown with England, where he has played for Newcastle for the past five years.

But Wissa isn't the only player with ties to England in the squad.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, born in London, represented England at the under-21 level.

Axel Tuanzebe also donned the Three Lions jersey at youth level and may face off against his former schoolmate and teammate Marcus Rashford in Atlanta.

Of the 26-man roster, 20 players hail from abroad, with the majority, like Wissa, originating from France.

The ongoing conflict for the mineral-rich region of East Congo has led to a protracted struggle among various armed factions, forcing countless families to seek refuge in Europe.

"There's a war in East Congo. Every day, every time we wear this shirt, we think about them," Wissa reflected.

"We desire peace, and for those affected, I just want to say 'thank you.' Thank you for allowing us to rise from nothing to this moment. We are now crafting our narrative with a bold stroke, and we need to take pride in it."

The inspiring journey on the pitch is deeply rooted in this tragic backdrop.

For smaller nations, sourcing and recruiting dual-national players has become essential to competing on the international stage.

'A New Generation Ready to Make a Difference'

Wan-Bissaka was one of those who initially needed some persuasion.

After being signed by Manchester United for £50 million ($66 million) at just 21, DR Congo seized the opportunity when his anticipated England career did not materialize.

As the Leopards' profile has risen, more players are eager to join the Congolese cause.

Noah Sadiki, who previously represented Belgium at youth level, would likely be a fixture for the Red Devils had he not chosen to switch allegiances.

"There's a new generation that wants to assist the people of our country," Sadiki told French sports outlet L'Equipe.

In their only previous World Cup appearance in 1974, competing as Zaire, the nation faced embarrassment, conceding 14 goals and suffering three defeats.

More than half a century later, Congo’s new generation has ignited hope and dreams among their compatriots.

The Ebola outbreak, which has claimed more than 300 lives, significantly impacted the team's World Cup preparations.

The United States required a 21-day isolation period for players in Belgium before granting them entry.

Their most ardent supporter, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga—famed for his statue-like pose honoring the country's first prime minister, Patrice Lumumba—was denied entry to the U.S.

Yet, under the leadership of French coach Sebastien Desabre, the team has defied the odds.

Congo eliminated African powerhouses Cameroon and Nigeria during qualifying and clinched their spot with a victory over Jamaica in an inter-continental play-off in March.

Desabre's squad then held Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal to a 1-1 draw, thanks to Wissa's header in their opening World Cup match.

A narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia meant they had to defeat Uzbekistan to reach the knockout stages for the first time.

With the support of thousands from the Congolese diaspora in the stands, Wissa emerged as the hero once again, leading the team to a 3-1 victory.

Now, they face England, one of the tournament's favorites.

However, given the challenges they have overcome to reach this point, Congo is unlikely to be intimidated.