The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has secured its place in the 2026 World Cup, fifty-two years after its last participation in 1974. The Leopards defeated Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in an intense match held in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute from a corner, sending the DRC to the most prestigious football competition. The victory ended a long wait for Congolese fans, who have not seen their team qualify for the World Cup in over half a century.
The DRC's journey to qualification was marked by unwavering determination. In the African playoffs, they eliminated top teams like Cameroon and Nigeria. The team demonstrated mental strength and the ability to perform under pressure, qualities that served them well in the crucial match against Jamaica.
The DRC's qualification brings the number of African nations participating in the 2026 World Cup, to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, to ten. The Leopards join Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
The victory triggered scenes of joy in the DRC, with supporters celebrating in the streets. Many interpreted the rain that fell on Kinshasa at the time of qualification as a sign of blessing. Beyond the joy, this qualification is seen as a rare moment of national unity in a country often facing conflict.
"It's truly exceptional, we are very proud of the Leopards today for this achievement," said Mérou, from Goma, a city in eastern DRC. "This victory will unite Congo, because the Leopards are the only time when Congolese are truly Congolese, and we hope that the whole country will benefit from it".
The goal for the DRC will be to improve on its 1974 performance, where, under the name Zaire, the team was eliminated in the first round. This qualification is an opportunity to write a new chapter in the history of Congolese football and inspire a new generation of players and fans.
