DRC Wins Intercontinental Finals to Reach World Cup

Democratic Republic of Congo Advances to 2026 FIFA World Cup After Win Over Jamaica

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has secured a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in an intercontinental playoff final, which went into extra time. Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the winning goal in the first half of extra time.

Tuanzebe’s goal came from a corner kick, and it was confirmed as a valid score after a minute-long delay to check for potential handball interference. The Congolese team dominated the match but failed to create clear-cut scoring opportunities.

The victory marks the DRC’s first appearance in the World Cup since 1974 as Zaire. Jamaica, on the other hand, has only reached the finals once before, in 1998. The DRC will now join the World Cup group alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan, with their opening match against Portugal scheduled.

The last remaining spot at the World Cup will be determined in a separate intercontinental final between Iraq and Bolivia, set to take place later on Tuesday.

Source: Al Jazeera