Bushiri's Historic World Cup Debut with DR Congo

It's May 2nd.

Edinburgh news today starts now, AI-powered and ready.

Hibbs defender Rocky Bouchiri is set to hit the World Cup stage with DR Congo, marking

their first trip there in 52 years.

They clinched it with the 1-0 win over Jamaica in the playoff final in Guadalajara last month,

where Bouchiri stayed on the bench as an unused sub.

Now they could face Cristiano Ronaldo when they open against Portugal on June 17th in Houston.

Bouchiri was born in DR Congo, but grew up in Belgium, playing for their youth teams before

switching allegiance in March 2023.

He debuted for Ustenday as their youngest ever pro back in December 2017, then moved to

Norwich in 2019 with loans around, Europe.

Since joining Hibbs in January 2022, he's racked up over 100 appearances and became a fan

favored with that clutch last minute, goal against Aberdeen.

The qualifications sparked massive celebrations back home, with President Felix Dessicecady

hosting the team at the People's Palace and crowds flooding.

Can Shasa streets on an open-top bus parade?

Officials even declared a public holiday.

Bouchiri called it a dream come true, crediting the new coach's project that hit Africa Cup

semis first before this huge step.

Their group K-Path gets tougher with Colombia on June 23rd near Guadalajara.

In Uzbekistan, four days later in Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz stadium, Hart's Claudio Braga

might even line up against them if Portugal calls.

Plus, the president hosts every player up with a house in a car as a historic reward.

Hibbs boss David Gray is buzzing for his 26 year old star, who missed a recent club game

after late celebrations, but deserves the spotlight for.

His solid play.

Bouchiri's balancing act between Easter Road and international duty just leveled up big

time.