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As Democratic Republic of the Congo prepares to play their country’s biggest soccer game ever, Forge FC goalkeeper Dimitry Bertaud will be watching from Hamilton.
Bertaud, who is of Congolese descent, came close to being part of the squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping his nation through qualifying before ultimately missing out on the final tournament roster.
Now, with DR Congo set to face England in Wednesday’s Round of 32, the 28-year-old says he couldn’t be prouder of what his country has accomplished.
“It’s a big moment,” Bertaud told CBC Hamilton through an interpreter. “It’s going to be an excellent match against England.”
For African nations, advancing to the knockout stage of the World Cup remains a rare achievement. Congo is one of four African nations, including South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Cabo Verde, to make it to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
“It’s extremely proud,” he said of representing DR Congo. “It’s nice to represent your origins and where your parents come from.”
From Ligue 1 to the Canadian Premier League
Born in Montpellier, France, Bertaud came through the academy at Montpellier HSC before making 49 appearances in Ligue 1 between 2017 and 2025, recording 14 clean sheets.
Before choosing to represent DR Congo internationally, he also suited up for France at multiple youth levels.
Bertaud signed with Forge FC in February ahead of the 2026 Canadian Premier League season after spending six months without a club.
The move also marked the first time he had played professionally outside France.
Joining Forge has provided something he was looking for after leaving France: regular playing time.
“I have the opportunity to play a lot of games,” he said.
The move has translated to a strong start for Forge, which sits atop the Canadian Premier League standings with an 8-1-1 record.
While most of Bertaud’s family remain in France, he says he has felt welcomed since arriving in Hamilton.
He says members of Canada’s Congolese community have reached out through social media, helping him feel connected while living abroad.
His professional career has now taken him farther from home than ever before, but he says he’s grateful for the opportunity.
“It’s been a great experience,” he said.
World Cup motivation
Although he didn’t make the final World Cup roster, Bertaud said the experience has only strengthened his resolve.
The goalkeeper says his focus now is continuing to perform for Forge FC while developing his game ahead of the next World Cup cycle.
“The World Cup is in four years,” he said. “There’s a lot of time.”
Playing professionally was always his childhood dream, particularly reaching France’s top division.
Now, he says, representing DR Congo on the international stage has become just as meaningful.
In the meantime, as DR Congo takes on England in their Round of 32 knockout game, he has one message to the team.
“No regrets, and play the game,” Bertaud said.
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