The Democratic Republic of the Congo secured a historic place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Jamaica 1-0 in extra time, marking their first appearance at the global tournament since 1974.
A decisive 100th-minute strike from Axel Tuanzebe sealed qualification for the Leopards, ending a 52-year absence from football’s biggest stage. The team last featured in the tournament as Zaire in 1974.
Tuanzebe’s winner came in Guadalajara, Mexico, as he converted a corner delivered by Brian Cipenga, with the ball taking a deflection past Jamaican goalkeeper Andre Blake.
DR Congo dominated early proceedings, with Cedric Bakambu twice denied by offside calls despite their attacking pressure. Jamaica responded after the break, creating chances from set-pieces but struggling to break down a disciplined Congolese defense.
The breakthrough finally arrived in extra time, with Tuanzebe’s goal confirmed after a lengthy VAR review, sparking jubilant celebrations among players and officials.
Despite a brief disruption caused by an injury to the referee late in the game, Jamaica could not find an equalizer as fatigue set in.
The victory sends DR Congo to their second-ever World Cup, where they have been drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. They will kick off their campaign against Portugal on June 17 in Houston, Texas.
