Yoane Wissa dedicated his goals that propelled Congo into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time to those suffering from a humanitarian crisis caused by war.
Wissa scored twice in a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, giving Congo their first-ever World Cup win and setting up a meeting with England in the last 32. Eastern Congo has been plagued for decades by conflict involving various armed groups, and Congo is also battling an Ebola outbreak that has claimed over 300 lives.
Wissa, supported by thousands of Congolese diaspora in Atlanta, led his team from behind to make history. He told reporters, “We are a proud country. We love our country. We love what we represent!” Wissa emphasized the importance of fighting for peace and thanked those who came from nothing to be here.
Wissa’s double took his tournament tally to three goals after also scoring in an impressive 1-1 draw against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal. The 29-year-old struggled with form and fitness following a £55 million ($73 million) move from Brentford in September, but he was proud of his current physical and mental state.
Next up is a clash with England, who remain among the favorites for the competition despite an unconvincing start to their quest. Wissa added that he’s happy with what they accomplished and excited about what’s coming next.