Former Democratic Republic of the Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani has warned that his former team is capable of causing a major World Cup upset against England, citing defensive frailties in Thomas Tuchel's side. Zakuani, who played a key role in assembling the squad from the Congolese diaspora, believes the Leopards can exploit England's struggles to break down compact defences.
Zakuani turns down commentary role due to emotion
Zakuani, a regular co-commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live during the tournament, declined to work on the match, admitting the emotional weight was too great. 'I was down to do the England game, but I just said: There's too much emotion in it. I won't be able to do it,' he said. Instead, he will watch with the Congolese community in Tottenham.
DR Congo's journey to the last 32
DR Congo qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1974 (as Zaire) and have impressed, drawing 1-1 with Portugal and coming from behind to beat Uzbekistan. Their squad, valued at £123.89 million, features Premier League talents like Yoane Wissa, Noah Sadiki, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Only six players were born in the DRC, with many recruited from the diaspora by Zakuani.
England's weaknesses exposed
Zakuani pointed to England's struggles against Ghana, who sat deep and frustrated them. 'There are holes in England. I think it's been glaring,' he said. 'When you sit back against England, they struggle to open you up. If you stop Jude Bellingham, I think you stop a lot of England.' He added that DR Congo's athleticism and defensive solidity could be key.
Familiar faces and diaspora recruitment
Wan-Bissaka, who played for England Under-21s, switched allegiance after being overlooked for the senior team. 'Aaron's had a fantastic tournament. I think he was unlucky not to be part of the England setup,' Zakuani said. Sadiki, tracked by Chelsea and Manchester United, also chose DR Congo over Belgium. 'He's so driven that he believed he should have been in the Belgian squad already,' Zakuani added.
A battle-hardened team ready for an upset
DR Congo finished second in their qualifying group, then eliminated Cameroon, Nigeria, and Jamaica to reach the World Cup. 'That journey has probably stood us in good stead in terms of getting through the playoffs, getting used to playing under pressure consistently,' Zakuani said. 'Inside that dressing room, they believe they can get a result. I believe there could be a scalp here. I think it's going to be a tighter match than everyone presumes.'
