World Cup hero aiming to dump out England nearly went blind after acid attack

World Cup hero aiming to dump out England nearly went blind after acid attack: Yoane Wissa’s near-loss of sight underscores the personal stakes behind DR Congo’s World Cup run. The Newcastle United forward survived an acid attack in July 2021 that caused serious chemical burns to his face and eyes and required emergency surgery on both eyes; doctors were able to prevent permanent blindness. After the assault, he returned quickly to football and completed an £8.5 million move to Brentford one month later. On the pitch, DR Congo advanced to the knockout stage for the first time since 1974 (as Zaire), finishing third in Group K and defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 with Wissa scoring twice. They face England in the round of 32, with Wissa described as a key player. Laetitia P., identified in court as the attacker, went on trial in France in January 2025.