World Cup Playoffs: DR Congo Camp Divided Over $1 Million Qualification Bonus

World Cup Playoffs: DR Congo Camp Divided Over $1 Million Qualification Bonus

Sampson Adedeji

Just days before their crucial World Cup playoff clash in Morocco, chaos has erupted in the DR Congo national team camp following reports that President Félix Tshisekedi promised each player a staggering $1 million reward if they qualify, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The announcement, which was intended to motivate the Leopards, has instead triggered tension and envy both within the team and among other African nations.

Many were surprised that such a huge sum would be offered merely for reaching the intercontinental playoffs not even for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup itself.

Inside the Congolese camp, the proposed bonus has sparked discontent. Injured players who contributed during the qualification phase but are now sidelined have expressed frustration at being excluded from the offer, while new call-ups who are just joining the squad stand to benefit handsomely if the team advances.

Sources say the situation has led to numerous calls from agents and insiders seeking clarifications or exceptions for absent players.

Members of the technical crew are also reportedly uneasy, questioning why the massive incentive is limited to players alone.

The controversy has even reached the Ministry of Sports, where officials accustomed to handling bonus issues with head coach Sébastien Desabre’s agent, Joe Kamga are said to be struggling to contain the unrest.

What was meant to serve as a motivational “boost” has now become a major distraction, creating more pressure than inspiration.

The staggering size of the bonus has even prompted Sports Minister Didier Budimbu to publicly downplay the report in an attempt to ease growing tensions around the team.