Gabriel Zakuani, the former captain of DR Congo, has cautioned the Leopards against complacency in their upcoming inter-confederation play-offs for a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an impressive turn of events, the Central African team recently triumphed over football giants Cameroon and Nigeria, placing themselves just one win away from making their World Cup return after nearly five decades.

DR Congo is set to compete against either Jamaica or New Caledonia in a crucial match in Mexico next March.

“It’s a favorable matchup as we appear to be the stronger team on paper,” the 39-year-old commented to BBC Sport Africa.

“Given our victories over Cameroon and Nigeria, there is a tendency to underestimate the game or be overly confident.

“However, the manager, Sebastien Desabre, has instilled a mindset in us that nothing should be taken lightly.”

“It’s imperative that we reach the World Cup. Since 1974, we’ve been absent from this prestigious tournament, which is a significant gap for a major African nation like DR Congo. This opportunity is monumental.”

Despite finishing just shy of an automatic spot for next year’s tournament after falling two points behind Senegal in Group B, DR Congo fought through the continental playoffs in Rabat to keep their hopes alive for a place in the expanded 48-team event.

Zakuani expressed that qualifying for the World Cup would be a tremendous boost for a nation that has faced prolonged turmoil in its eastern regions.

“Reaching the World Cup would be monumental for our country,” he stated.

“The players’ accomplishments would ripple through various facets of life, providing joy for children and igniting celebrations across Congo leading up to the tournament.”

“This hasn’t been witnessed for such an extended period. It promises to bring peace, happiness, and anticipation.”

“This feat would mean so much for DR Congo.”