DR Congo Ends 52-Year Wait for World Cup Qualification
DR Congo beats Jamaica 1-0 in extra time, qualifies for 2026 World Cup. Axel Tuanzebe scores winner as DR Congo books World Cup spot.
DR Congo's World Cup qualifying campaign...
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has made history by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years, defeating Jamaica 1-0 in extra time in their first-ever head-to-head meeting. The match, held in Zapopan, Mexico, was a high-stakes affair, with both teams vying for their second World Cup appearance in their respective histories.
Axel Tuanzebe scored the winning goal in the 100th minute, securing DR Congo's spot in the 2026 World Cup. This marks a significant milestone for the team, which last appeared in the World Cup in 1974 as Zaire. DR Congo will now join Group K with Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.
Jamaica were the underdogs against DR Congo, having only lost once in their last nine games (W6, D2). The Reggae Boyz thought DR Congo had taken the lead in the 4th minute when Meschack Elia's low cross found Cedric Bakambu, who scored. But the goal was quickly ruled out as Bakambu was offside.
DR Congo's early pressure almost paid off when Cedric Bakambu had a golden chance to score. He was left unmarked in the box and headed goalwards from Nathanael Mbuku's free-kick, but Jamaica's goalkeeper Andre Blake made a comfortable save.
DR Congo kept pushing, with Jamaica's goalkeeper Andre Blake barely troubled by their off-target shots. It wasn't until the 30th minute that Jamaica had a chance to threaten DR Congo's goal. Bobby De Cordova-Reid laid the ball off to Kasey Palmer, who drilled a shot that was blocked for a corner.
Meschack Elia's shot hit the woodwork just before halftime, leaving DR Congo frustrated despite dominating the game. The African side's pressure continued after the break, with Cedric Bakambu having another close chance. This time, he curled a shot from 20 yards out, but Jamaica's Andre Blake made a great save.
Jamaica was struggling to cope with DR Congo's pressure, but they were still level at 0-0 after an hour of play. DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre brought on Theo Bongonda, who created a great chance for Cedric Bakambu. Bakambu tapped the ball into an empty net, but was flagged offside again.
The match was heading for penalties, but DR Congo broke the deadlock in the 100th minute of extra time. Axel Tuanzebe scored from close range, bundling in after Brian Cipenga's corner kick was diverted into his path.
This goal secured DR Congo's 1-0 win over Jamaica, booking their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Jamaica pushed hard but couldn't break through DR Congo's defense. Despite late chances for Edo Kayembe and Bakambu to score a second goal, DR Congo secured their World Cup spot. The African team will now join Group K with Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.
The Reggae Boyz' hopes for a second World Cup finals appearance are now on hold as they fall short again.
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