In the early hours of today, the DR Congo national team made history after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in an intercontinental play-off match, securing their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The intense match was played at Estadio Akron in Mexico, with both teams showing strong competition from the opening minutes. The regular 90 minutes ended goalless, with each side creating a few key chances.
However, extra time proved decisive. DR Congo defender Axel Tuanzebe emerged as the hero, scoring the only goal in the 100th minute from a corner kick. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review.
In the match:
- DR Congo controlled large portions of the game
- Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake made several crucial saves
- Jamaica created chances through Leon Bailey but failed to convert
This victory marks DR Congo’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.
Which group is DR Congo in?
Following their qualification, DR Congo has been placed in Group K alongside:
- Colombia
- Portugal
- Uzbekistan
With DR Congo’s qualification, Africa will now have 10 representatives at the 2026 World Cup, following the expansion of the tournament to 48 teams.
The African representatives at the tournament, set to take place in June this year, are:
- Senegal
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Ghana
- Egypt
- Tunisia
- Cameroon
- Nigeria
- Ivory Coast
- DR Congo
