DR Congo edge Jamaica to qualify for first World Cup since 1974

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The Democratic Republic of Congo, in the early hours of Wednesday, defeated Jamaica 1-0 after extra time to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 52-year wait.

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A 100th-minute goal by Axel Tuanzebe secured the Leopards’ passage, earning them the 47th slot at the tournament.

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The victory marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire.

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Tuanzebe scored in Guadalajara, Mexico, converting a corner from Brian Cipenga, which deflected past Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake.

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DR Congo dominated the early stages, with Cedric Bakambu denied an opening goal after being flagged offside.

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Jamaica improved after the break, creating chances from set-pieces but failing to breach the Congolese defense.

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Bakambu had another effort ruled out for offside as the Leopards continued to press.

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Their persistence paid off in extra time when Cipenga delivered the corner that led to Tuanzebe’s decisive goal.

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A lengthy VAR check confirmed the goal, sparking celebrations among DR Congo players and officials.

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The game was briefly disrupted in the second half of extra time following an injury to the referee.

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Jamaica, however, could not find an equalizer as fatigue set in against a disciplined DR Congo side.

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The result means DR Congo will make their second World Cup appearance, having qualified for the first time in 1974.

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They have been drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia, and will open their campaign against Portugal on June 17 in Houston, Texas.

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