The Democratic Republic of Congo, which beat the Super Eagles in the continental playoff final, qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals on Tuesday night.
In one of the intercontinental finals, the Congolese, who will be making their first appearance at the global tournament since 1974, became Africa’s 10th qualifiers for the competition that will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada in June and July, this year.
A 100th-minute goal by Axel Tuanzebe, secured the Leopards’ passage against Jamaica, earning them the 47th slot at the tournament.
Tuanzebe scored in Guadalajara, Mexico, converting a corner from Brian Cipenga which deflected past Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake.
DR Congo dominated the early stages, with Cedric Bakambu denied an opening goal after being flagged offside.
Jamaica improved after the break, creating chances from set-pieces but failing to breach the Congolese defence.
Bakambu had another effort ruled out for offside as the Leopards continued to press.
Their persistence paid off in extra time when Cipenga delivered the corner that led to Tuanzebe’s decisive goal.
A lengthy VAR check confirmed the goal, sparking celebrations among DR Congo players and officials.
The game was briefly disrupted in the second half of extra time following an injury to the referee.
Jamaica, however, could not find an equaliser as fatigue set in against a disciplined DR Congo side.
DR Congo have been drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia, and will open their campaign against Portugal on 17 June in Houston, Texas, the United States .
