Samuel Moutoussamy, a midfielder for DR Congo, is set to debut against Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His journey embodies a rich cultural heritage, with connections tracing back to India.
Profile of Samuel Moutoussamy
Born on August 12, 1996, in Paris, France, Moutoussamy has emerged as a versatile attacking midfielder. Known for his work ethic and tactical awareness, he played for several youth academies in France before joining FC Nantes. Over seven years, he participated in more than 140 matches for the club.
His professional journey continued with stints in the Netherlands and Turkey, eventually leading him to Atromitos in the Greek Super League. On the international stage, Moutoussamy has accumulated over 50 caps for the DR Congo national team. His notable contributions helped the team reach the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Cultural Heritage
Moutoussamy’s heritage is a testament to a global narrative. He is of Indian descent through his father, who hails from an Indo-Guadeloupean background. His familial roots trace back to the Tamil community that migrated to Guadeloupe in the 19th century. Moutoussamy’s mother is Congolese, highlighting his multifaceted identity that connects him to both Africa and India.
Qualification for DR Congo
Though born in France, Moutoussamy qualified to represent DR Congo due to his mother’s Congolese heritage. He made his international debut in 2019 and has since established himself as a key player for the Leopards.
2026 FIFA World Cup
DR Congo has been placed in Group K for the upcoming tournament, along with:
- Portugal
- Colombia
- Uzbekistan
The match against Portugal is scheduled for June 17, 2026, at 1 p.m. ET, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. This corresponds to 10:30 p.m. IST on the same day in India.
Viewing Options
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be broadcast in India through Unite8 and Unite8 HD. Fans can also stream the matches live on Zee5. Additionally, DD Sports will offer select games without requiring a subscription. As the tournament approaches, viewers are encouraged to check the latest coverage details, as broadcast options may vary.
Samuel Moutoussamy’s upcoming debut will be a momentous occasion, not only for him but also for the representation of diverse cultures on the world stage. With his rich heritage and commitment to DR Congo, Moutoussamy is poised to leave a lasting impact at the World Cup.
