The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have finally reached the 2026 World Cup, ending a more than 50‑year absence from the tournament after a tense 1–0 extra‑time victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff final. The goal, scored by Axel Tuanzebe in the 100th minute, secured their place as the 48‑team finals’ penultimate qualifier.
Decisive moment in Guadalajara
Playing at Estadio Guadalajara in Mexico, DR Congo and Jamaica were locked at 0–0 after a tightly contested 90 minutes, raising fears the tie would go to penalties. Tuanzebe, a former Manchester United defender, converted a corner in the first half of extra time, and a brief video review confirmed no handball, allowing the goal to stand and send the Leopards into raptures.
Historic return to the World Cup
DR Congo’s last World Cup appearance was at West Germany 1974, when they were banned after the tournament over rules‑violation allegations; their 2026 berth marks their long‑awaited second qualification. Under coach Sébastien Desabre, they reached the final of the CAF‑Africa playoff by beating Nigeria on penalties, then overcame New Zealand‑region winner New Caledonia’s pathmate Jamaica to claim the 0.5 African‑Oceania spot in the 48‑team structure.
