The Democratic Republic of the Congo secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over Jamaica in Guadalajara on March 31, 2026. Centre-back Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute, sending the Leopards to their first World Cup since 1974.
It was a heartbreaking end for Jamaica, who had been hoping to reach their first World Cup since 1998. The Reggae Boyz had shown impressive resilience throughout the playoff bracket but ultimately fell short at the final hurdle against a physically imposing and tactically disciplined Congolese side.
DR Congo will now face Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K — the toughest possible draw for the African side, but one that represents a remarkable achievement for Congolese football. Coach Sébastien Desabre has built a squad that blends European-based talent with local passion, and the entire nation is united behind the Leopards' World Cup dream.
