President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has urged Congolese living in the United States to reject division and remain united, speaking during a rally in Houston following the DRC national football team’s historic draw against Portugal in the FIFA World Cup.

Addressing a crowd of Congolese supporters in Texas, President Tshisekedi emphasized the importance of national cohesion, particularly in the face of ongoing security challenges in eastern DRC. He warned against divisive rhetoric and regionalism, urging the diaspora to remain vigilant against those he described as “enemies of the nation.”

“Their accomplices have gone mad. Stay united. Do not let them deceive you or exploit regionalism to manipulate you. Reject any attempt to betray our country. There are still witches among us—some thought they were only in Rwanda, but they have infiltrated us,” he declared.

The president also celebrated the performance of the Léopards, DRC’s national football team, which secured its first-ever World Cup point in a thrilling 1-1 draw with Portugal. “The Léopards have made us proud. I have asked FIFA if we advance from the group stage, they will allocate additional tickets for Congolese supporters here. Do not worry—we will provide resources to our ambassador,” he stated.

Tshisekedi framed the team’s achievement as a symbol of national resilience. “Today, everyone who feared Cristiano Ronaldo saw how we played—a nation at war like ours. Let us rise, as our national anthem commands. Show the world the dignity of being Congolese,” he urged.

The president confirmed he would soon return to the DRC to address other pressing matters. “I am going home to handle other affairs. I came here to bring luck for the first match. We are ensuring you can follow the team’s progress,” he explained.

On the security situation in eastern DRC, Tshisekedi expressed optimism about future improvements. “I believe that in the coming months, all of Congo will be liberated. Our brothers and sisters are celebrating in Goma and Bukavu—soon, we will unite. The enemies infiltrated us, but we have learned our lesson. Now, we must build something greater,” he said.

In a speech blending football, politics, and national identity, Tshisekedi called on Congolese to take pride in their heritage and invest in sectors ranging from sports to science. “We started with the Léopards, and we will extend this to basketball, football, science, and education. Be proud to be Congolese. It is my mission to restore that pride,” he affirmed.

The DRC secured its first World Cup point in history with the draw against Portugal in Houston.