Benni McCarthy Shares Heartfelt Message After Axel Tuanzebe Fires DR Congo to World Cup

Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe became a national hero on Tuesday, March, scoring a dramatic late winner against Jamaica to secure the Democratic Republic of Congo's place at the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.

The tense play-off match appeared destined for extra time until Axel Tuanzebe, now with Burnley, headed home in the 100th minute to seal a historic 1-0 victory.

The goal ended a half-century drought for the African nation, whose only previous appearance at the tournament was in 1974 when the country was known as Zaire.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

In the wake of the triumph, authorities in DR Congo declared the following day a public holiday, cementing Tuanzebe's status as a national icon.

The defender took to social media to celebrate the achievement, calling it the "greatest moment" of his career alongside a video of his decisive goal.

The post drew praise from across the football world, with current and former teammates like Marcus Rashford, Harry Maguire, and Timothy Fosu-Mensah offering their congratulations. A particularly heartfelt message came from former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy.

Benni McCarthy joined Manchester United as a first-team coach on July 30, 2022, focusing specifically on improving the efficiency of the club's strikers.

He remained in the role for two seasons under Erik ten Hag before leaving Old Trafford following the expiration of his contract on June 30, 2024.

During his tenure, he briefly worked with Axel Tuanzebe during the 2022–23 pre-season and early campaign before the defender eventually moved to Ipswich Town and later Burnley.

"Massive congratulations, my guy," Benni McCarthy wrote. "Top stuff and incredibly happy for you and your team."

Tuanzebe was not the only player with a United connection in the DR Congo squad; he was joined by West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The pair will now prepare to face a challenging Group K at the World Cup, which includes Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

Their opening match on June 17 will pit them against familiar faces, as they are set to face Portugal, a team expected to feature current Manchester United stars Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes.