DR Congo players have prayed and given glory to God, having made World Cup history. 

After qualifying for the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history, players gathered in prayer around the centre circle before their celebrations. 

Having beaten Uzbekistan 3-1, players and coaches were seen praying out loud, holding their arms out and making the sign of the cross. 

“Thank you, Jesus,” winger Joris Kayembe posted on social media. “We did it together, a team, a group, a family and the supporters. Congo to the world, Congo on the map. God is great.”

England are DR Congo’s next opponents in the round of 32. Kickoff is 5pm on Wednesday.

A number of The Leopards players have spoken publicly about their Christian faith, including Sunderland player Noah Sadiki, who has appeared in videos for Ballers in God declaring: “Jesus is my Lord and saviour”.

“In a tournament where many chase the spotlight, it’s beautiful to see players first turn their hearts toward the One who deserves all the glory,” the football ministry shared.