The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has announced a massive financial incentive to motivate its national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-offs. Each player has been promised a $1 million bonus if the Leopards secure qualification for the intercontinental play-offs.
Set to face Cameroon on Thursday, November 13, the Leopards will need to win the semi-final clash to advance to a decisive showdown against either Nigeria or Gabon. The high-stakes matches are part of CAF’s special play-off mini-tournament, running from November 13 to 16 in Morocco.
According to Sport News Africa, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has personally authorized the incentive to spur the team to victory. Acting under his directive, the government approved a special bonus package, with Rawbank set to handle the direct transfer of funds should the team qualify by November 16, the date of the final.
“Each player will receive $1 million upon qualification for the intercontinental play-offs,” Sport News Africa reported, adding that the offer excludes head coach Sébastien Desabre and his technical staff.
Government sources revealed that the incentive is designed to boost morale and inspire the Leopards in their bid to return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1974.
While most African nations are using the November international window for friendly matches, DR Congo, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon remain locked in fierce competition for a single intercontinental play-off spot.
Victory in Morocco would bring one of these teams a step closer to the expanded 48-team World Cup, set to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States in 2026.
CAF’s play-off structure features four of Africa’s best runners-up from the qualification group stage, competing in two single-leg semi-finals and a final. The overall winner will represent Africa in the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled for March 2026, where the last World Cup slots will be decided.
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