DR Congo defender Gédéon Kalulu has put the footballing world on notice, declaring that the Leopards — returning to the World Cup stage for the first time in over half a century — will be no pushover in 2026.

The Leopards last appeared on football's grandest stage as Zaire in 1974, meaning an absence of 52 years. Now drawn into Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan, Kalulu insists DR Congo's disciplined style and tactical patience make them a genuine threat to any opponent.

"It doesn't matter who we're up against. It's the World Cup, so we're bound to come up against some big names," Kalulu told FIFA.com. "We're there because we've got what it takes. We'll have to look them in the eye, without being afraid or nervous."

Playing for 100 million people

Kalulu was keen to emphasise the weight of expectation behind the squad, pointing to a nation of 100 million people who have waited decades to witness their team compete at this level.

"It's the biggest competition of all, the one we've been watching on TV since we were little. We're going to play for our blood, our roots — it's incredible," he said. "It's been 52 years — more than half a century — since the Congolese last experienced the excitement of the World Cup!"

A team built on discipline and patience

Far from treating Colombia and Uzbekistan as easier fixtures, Kalulu cautioned against underestimating anyone in the group. "We shouldn't necessarily rank them below Portugal. Those two matches won't be any easier than the first one," he said.

The defender acknowledged that DR Congo will not arrive as favourites, but argued their collective strength more than compensates. "When we're in the right frame of mind, it's tough to beat us. We have a disciplined team that knows how to be patient," Kalulu explained.

He also highlighted their ability to absorb pressure and hit teams on the counter — a strategy that carried them through the intercontinental playoff and into the tournament. "We've shown that we're capable of sitting back, letting the opposition have the ball, and causing them problems when we win it back by surging forward quickly and in numbers," he added.