Cédric Bakambu
Set to leave Real Betis
Bakambu will not continue at Real Betis next season, the club announced.
Analysis: Bakambu leaves Real Betis after being part of the squad that reached the UEFA Conference League final in 2025 and secured Champions League qualification last May. The DR Congo international continues his involvement at the World Cup as the Leopards will face England on Wednesday in the round of 32. Bakambu will return from the competition as a free agent and will be able to sign with the club of his choice to continue his career.
Quiet in loss to Colombia
Bakambu recorded one shot (zero on goal) in Tuesday's 1-0 loss against Colombia.
Analysis: Bakambu contributed one shot and two aerial duel wins across his 57 minutes in Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Colombia before being replaced by Simon banza. The veteran forward completed six passes in a match where the collective attacking output was severely limited by Colombia's disciplined defensive structure and the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi at the other end kept his side in the contest far longer than the balance of play suggested.
Busy in draw
Bakambu registered two shots (zero on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one chance created in Wednesday's 1-1 draw versus Portugal.
Analysis: Bakambu had plenty to do throughout Wednesday's clash but couldn't put his name on the scoresheet. He contributed throughout the match and made some dangerous runs, but it just wasn't enough to get the win. Still he was lethal alongside Yoane Wissa up top and the two could be a strong strike pairing going forward.
Veteran presence in attack
Bakambu has been named in Congo's World Cup squad as one of the key attacking figures, arriving at the tournament after a productive season with Real Betis.
Analysis: Bakambu contributed four goals and three assists across all competitions this season, delivering a consistent output that underlines his continued value as an experienced and technically accomplished forward. His ability to combine in tight spaces, hold up play and deliver in the final third makes him a perfect partner for Yoane Wissa up front, with the two expected to form one of the more dangerous attacking partnerships among the smaller nations at the tournament. At 35, Bakambu brings the experience and composure needed to perform on the biggest stage, and his leadership within the Congolese attack will be crucial in a World Cup debut that represents the pinnacle of the nation's footballing history.
Delivers one assist off bench
Bakambu assisted once to go with zero corners and one chance created in Tuesday's 3-2 victory over Girona. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 50th minute.
Analysis: Bakambu came off the bench at halftime in Tuesday's 3-2 win over Girona and made an immediate impact in the second half, racing clear of the Girona defence on a fast break before squaring to Ez Abde to give his side the lead, while adding one key pass. The Congolese has now registered three goals and one assist in 16 La Liga appearances, making him a reliable option off the bench in his side's attack.
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