‘Root for Congo’: Georgia’s Congolese Community Celebrates Nation’s World Cup Return After 52 Years
After 52 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo is back on the World Cup stage.
Members of Georgia’s Congolese community are celebrating the long-awaited return as they prepare to watch their national team play in Atlanta on Saturday.
Congolese Fans Celebrate in Atlanta
Last week, fans gathered at the FIFA Fan Festival in Centennial Olympic Park, where they sang, danced and waved Congolese flags during Congo’s match against Portugal.
The celebration became even more emotional when Congo scored its first-ever World Cup goal, creating a memorable moment for fans watching from Atlanta.
Atlanta’s Congolese Community Shares Pride
More than 3,000 Atlanta residents were born in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The country made history in 1974 as the first African nation to compete in the World Cup, back when it was known as Zaire.
For many Congolese fans in Georgia, this year’s tournament represents a powerful moment of pride, visibility and connection to their homeland.
Fans Call the Moment Unforgettable
Difi Maancha, who is Congolese, said he is thrilled to watch his home country play in person at his first World Cup match.
He said many generations never had the chance to witness Congo return to the tournament, noting that he had not been born the last time the country qualified. He called Congo’s first World Cup goal against one of the tournament favorites an incredible moment and encouraged neutral fans to support Congo.
Expanded World Cup Brings More African Teams
This year, FIFA expanded the World Cup field from 32 teams to 48 teams.
The 2026 tournament includes a record 10 African countries, with several making their first appearances on the global stage.
African Teams Winning New Fans
Atlanta resident Alex Jordan said he usually supports Brazil, but after watching African teams perform, he is now considering buying a Congo jersey.
He said teams like Cape Verde helped make the tournament more exciting and increased his interest in African nations competing in the World Cup.
Congo’s Return Brings Global Awareness
For some fans, including Milka Jules, Congo’s return is about more than soccer.
Jules said the World Cup gives the country a chance to share its story with the world and raise awareness about its resources and global importance.
She pointed out that many people use products such as iPhones without realizing that materials used to make them come from Congo. She said people should care more about the country and that she is proud to see Congo representing itself on the world stage.
Congo to Face Uzbekistan in Atlanta
The Democratic Republic of Congo is scheduled to play Uzbekistan in Atlanta on Saturday.
Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m.
Congo’s return to the World Cup after more than five decades has sparked excitement throughout Georgia’s Congolese community. From celebrations at Centennial Olympic Park to growing support among Atlanta soccer fans, the team’s historic run is giving supporters a reason to celebrate their heritage and share Congo’s story with a wider audience.