Addis Ababa, April 1, 2026 (FMC) – The Democratic Republic of Congo has secured a historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Jamaica 1-0 in a dramatic intercontinental playoff final in Mexico.
The winning goal came in the 100th minute, when defender Axel Tuanzebe found the back of the net, ending a tense stalemate after regulation time. The match was part of the final stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying playoffs.
This marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance in 52 years, following their only previous participation in 1974, when they competed as Zaire.
The victory secures one of the final remaining spots in the expanded 48-team tournament, set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. DR Congo has been drawn into Group K, where they will face Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan.
The squad that achieved this milestone features several Europe-based players, demonstrating the influence of the Congolese diaspora on the national team. Analysts noted that DR Congo’s disciplined defense and resilience under pressure were key factors in their playoff success.
The team’s qualification is being hailed as a national triumph, inspiring widespread celebration among fans both at home and abroad. It also marks a significant moment for African football, as DR Congo joins a growing number of nations representing the continent at the 2026 World Cup.
Across the world, last night’s World Cup qualifying playoffs produced several dramatic results.
Sweden secured their place in the 2026 tournament with a 3-2 victory over Poland, capped by a late goal from Viktor Gyökeres. Turkey ended a 24-year absence from the World Cup by defeating Kosovo 1-0 in their playoff final, with Kerem Akturkoglu scoring the decisive goal.
Meanwhile, the Czech Republic booked their spot with a penalty shootout win over Denmark after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
These outcomes completed the final spots for several nations in the expanded 48-team tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions of the World Cup in history.