Guadalajara, Mexico – The Democratic Republic of Congo are heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Axel Tuanzebe’s goal in the 100th minute secured a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in a tense intercontinental playoff match played Tuesday at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, marking only the second time the nation, formerly known as Zaire, has qualified for the tournament. The win confirms the DRC as the tenth team from the African Confederation to secure a spot in the expanded 48-team competition.
The Leopards will compete in Group K alongside Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan when the tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
This qualification is particularly significant as it follows a successful run through the African qualifying stages, where the DRC overcame formidable opponents like Cameroon, and Nigeria. The team, under the guidance of French manager Sébastien Desabre, demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline throughout the playoff campaign.
A Hard-Fought Victory in Guadalajara
The match itself was a largely uneventful affair until Tuanzebe’s dramatic intervention. The Congolese side largely dominated possession, but struggled to break down a resolute Jamaican defense. Cédric Bakambu, a veteran forward, had two goals disallowed for offside in the 5th and 85th minutes, and a powerful strike in the 47th minute was saved by the Jamaican goalkeeper.
Jamaica, aiming for a second World Cup appearance after their debut in 1998, proved a dangerous opponent on the counterattack. Kasey Palmer and Leon Bailey both tested the Congolese goalkeeper with shots in the first half. However, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
The breakthrough finally came in the 100th minute. A corner kick, initially cleared, was recycled back into the box and eventually found Tuanzebe, who managed to turn the ball into the net amidst a scramble in the penalty area. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Congolese players and supporters.
An Unusual Ending
The match took an unexpected turn in the 115th minute when the referee was forced to abandon the field due to an injury to his left leg. This added several minutes of stoppage time and further disrupted the flow of the game. Despite the disruption, the DRC held on to secure their historic victory.
The win represents a major achievement for Congolese football and a source of national pride. It also underscores the growing competitiveness of African teams on the global stage. With the expansion to 48 teams, the 2026 World Cup will provide a platform for more African nations to showcase their talent.
For Jamaica, the defeat is a bitter disappointment. Having arrive close to qualifying directly from the CONCACAF region, they were unable to seize their opportunity in the intercontinental playoff. The Reggae Boyz will now look to rebuild and prepare for future qualifying campaigns.
Tuanzebe’s Journey
Axel Tuanzebe, the match-winner, has had a varied career. Born in Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo, he also holds British citizenship and has represented both England at youth levels and now the DRC at the senior level. He currently plays as a defender for Burnley FC, having previously spent time with Manchester United, Aston Villa, Napoli, and Stoke City. His late goal against Jamaica will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in his career and a pivotal moment for Congolese football.
The qualification also highlights the growing partnership between the DRC and the United States. In December 2025, the two nations signed a strategic partnership focused on peace and economic transformation, including an economic agreement and a security memorandum of understanding. This partnership aims to secure supply chains for critical minerals and promote long-term economic growth in the DRC. The United States has also expressed its commitment to the success of the Sakania-Lobito Corridor project, which is intended to benefit the DRC and open new market opportunities for U.S. Businesses.
The Leopards’ journey to the 2026 World Cup is a testament to their determination and the progress of football in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Fans can now look forward to seeing their national team compete on the world’s biggest stage next summer.
Next Up: The official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the coming months, where the DRC will learn their full schedule and opponents within Group K. Stay tuned to Archysport for updates as they become available.
