Cipenga World Cup debut for DR Congo, historic for Castellón? | OneFootball

Cipenga made his World Cup debut for DR Congo, a milestone that places CD Castellón in uncharted territory.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, UD Almería have confirmed his signing for the coming seasons, yet his Castellón contract runs until 30 June. That meant he still belonged to the club during the game against Uzbekistan. On that strict contractual basis, he is the first player to appear at a World Cup while belonging to CD Castellón.

For a century-old club with many internationals, direct World Cup representation under contract had never happened. The winger’s rise has taken him from modest Portuguese football to becoming a LaLiga Hypermotion revelation and a full DR Congo international.

DR Congo beat Uzbekistan 3-1 to reach the last 32. They face England on 1 July.

The story might not end there. Castellón also have Australian Awer Mabil, who remains with his national team and could still debut. If he gets minutes, the club could boast two World Cup players in the same edition, reflecting their growth in recent seasons.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo