The current squad has already ticked off milestones the 1974 Leopards only dreamed of: a first World Cup goal and point against Portugal in their opener, followed by a maiden finals victory over Uzbekistan to reach the knockout rounds.
Meanwhile, DR Congo continues to face major challenges at home, including conflict in the east and a recent Ebola outbreak that disrupted World Cup preparations.
Supporter Tanya Maria, speaking to BBC Sport Africa in the United States, reflected that the last time they were on this stage the shirts were different, the nation was called Zaire, and it felt like another era entirely.
She said the World Cup has encouraged people to invest emotionally in the country—and that when the world cares about a nation and its people, real change can follow.
There is optimism that Fecofa’s new leadership, elected in May, can build on qualification and help revive the domestic league.
Player conditions have also improved significantly.
Centre-back Axel Tuanzebe noted the squad now has everything it needs, a stability that helped them perform—remarks he made shortly before scoring the decisive goal in March’s intercontinental play-off against Jamaica to clinch their World Cup place.
The players know they represent more than just a team.
After the win over Uzbekistan, striker Yoane Wissa pointed to the difficulties back home, citing the war in eastern Congo, and said the squad thinks of those affected every time they put on the shirt. He called for peace and expressed gratitude for how far they have come.
He added that it’s now time for them to write their own story.
For Kabala, Wednesday’s last-32 matchup is almost bigger than the Rumble in the Jungle—an opportunity for the Leopards to seriously dent England’s pursuit of a second World Cup title.
Compiled by BBC Sport Africa’s Rob Stevens, based on interviews by Peter Musembi, Lucy Provan, Ian Williams, Alassane Dia and Celestine Karoney.