DR Congo Qualify For 2026 World Cup With Dramatic Extra-Time Victory Over Jamaica

DR Congo Qualify For 2026 World Cup With Dramatic Extra-Time Victory Over Jamaica

By Niyi Busari 

The Democratic Republic of Congo secured a historic return to the FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off final on Tuesday night at the Estadio Akron in Mexico, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

A decisive goal from Axel Tuanzebe in the 100th minute proved enough to separate the two sides after a tightly contested encounter that remained goalless through both regular time and much of extra time.

The result marks DR Congo’s first appearance at the World Cup finals since 1970, ending a 56-year absence from football’s biggest stage.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre, who took charge three and a half years ago, has now fulfilled a long-term objective of rebuilding the Leopards into a competitive force. Under his leadership, the team has steadily risen in stature, culminating in this landmark qualification.

Both teams struggled to break the deadlock during regulation time, with disciplined defending and missed opportunities defining the match. However, Tuanzebe’s late intervention — a composed lobbed finish — ultimately sealed the victory and ignited celebrations among Congolese supporters.

With the win, DR Congo claimed Africa’s 10th and final qualifying slot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, edging out Jamaica in the decisive playoff.