The Democratic Republic of Congo made a memorable start to its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. Facing Portugal, one of the tournament favorites, the Leopards secured a valuable 1-1 draw thanks to a historic goal by Yoane Wissa.
With a powerful header from a perfectly delivered cross by Arthur Masuaku, the Congolese striker became the first player in DR Congo’s history to score a goal at a FIFA World Cup. The achievement has already earned him a special place in Congolese football history and a nickname that is rapidly spreading across social media: the “National Kovo.”
After the match, Wissa expressed his pride in the team's performance.
"We worked very hard for this result. Against a very strong team, we showed character and resilience. This goal is a collective reward," he said.
A Career Built Step by Step
Born in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, near Paris, Yoane Wissa never followed the shortcuts of modern football. He began his professional career in France’s third division with Châteauroux before joining Angers. Loan spells at Laval and Ajaccio helped him gain experience and further develop his attacking qualities.
His breakthrough came at FC Lorient, where he played a key role in the club’s promotion to Ligue 1 in 2020. Finishing among the top scorers in Ligue 2, he attracted the attention of several European clubs.
A Career Marked by Adversity
In 2021, while playing for Lorient, Wissa’s life changed dramatically when he became the victim of a violent acid attack at his home. Seriously injured in the face, he narrowly avoided severe long-term consequences thanks to rapid medical treatment.
The traumatic incident could have ended his career, but the striker found the strength to overcome the ordeal.
A few months later, he moved to England and signed for Brentford. In the Premier League, he continued to fulfill his potential, gradually establishing himself as one of the league’s most effective forwards.
From Brentford to Newcastle
The 2024–2025 season marked the peak of his English career. With 20 goals and 4 assists, he ranked among the Premier League’s leading scorers, behind stars such as Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland.
His performances convinced Newcastle United to sign him. However, a knee injury disrupted his first season with the Magpies, making it a more challenging campaign.
Today, at the age of 30, Wissa could use the global exposure of the World Cup to reignite his club career. His goal against Portugal has already attracted significant attention from football observers.
Before thinking about his future at club level, however, Yoane Wissa remains focused on a more immediate objective: helping the Leopards continue their World Cup journey in upcoming matches against Colombia and Uzbekistan.
