Many observers think that DR Congo could be one of the most impressive African teams at the World Cup, reports fifa.com.

They have experienced players such as Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley), Yoane Wissa (Newcastle), Noah Sadiki (Sunderland), Arthur Masuaku (Lens) and Aaron Wan-Bissaka of West Ham.

During an interview with the West Ham matchday programme, Wan-Bissaka expressed his pride at having helped his country qualify for their first World Cup for 52 years during the March international break.

He said: “I’m very proud. I don’t think I realised how massive it was until we all got back to DR Congo and celebrated with the fans. They’re so passionate, and you can tell how much it meant to them. I don’t think it’s properly sunk in yet that we have a World Cup to look forward to.

The Hammer was involved in a relegation dogfight all season long with his club, but he has much to look forward to this summer.

“When I accepted my first call-up, I thought it was the right moment to take that step. My family were telling me it was my decision. I don’t regret it, and I’m really happy with the decision I made. I’m just looking forward to the future.

“The decision was not hard for me. It’s where I’m from, I’m already connected with the country, so making the decision was easy.

“Axel Tuanzebe called me before I joined. He told me what it was like there, asked me if I had any questions, and since I’ve been there, he’s been really close with me. Sometimes he helps to translate for me.

“I’ve had some proud moments for DR Congo already. Even playing in the Africa Cup of Nations, to have the opportunity to take part in such a big tournament, I was really happy.”

The African nation beat Jamaica in a tense two-legged play-off to secure their World Cup berth. The defender shared his feelings.

“On the way to the stadium, the streets were packed. The energy around the ground and the noise from the fans was amazing.

“Once I entered the stadium, it was full. The atmosphere, love and passion from the fans really impressed me.

“For both teams, there was pressure. Only one could go through and that showed with how the game started. But once we got a bit comfortable and built confidence into the game, that’s when chances started to arrive. We took one from the corner and that helped us to see out the game.

“We’ve come along way to be in this position, but we’re excited. The journey hasn’t been easy with the amount of games we’ve had to play but to finally get there, is a really proud moment.”

Wan-Bissaka and his team mates are not heading to Canada, Mexico and the USA to just make up the numbers. “If we put our mind to it, I think we can do well. We haven’t got this far just to participate, we really want to give it a go. We want to do well not just for ourselves, but for the country.”

DR Congo their World Cup campaign against Portugal today.