DR Congo End 52-Year World Cup Exile After Beating Jamaica, Leaving Nigeria Behind

Nigeria watched another African rival book a World Cup place they could not. DR Congo are going to the 2026 tournament for the first time since 1974 — and it was a former Super Eagles rival who got them there.

The Leopards beat Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in their intercontinental playoff at the Akron Stadium near Guadalajara. Axel Tuanzebe, the Burnley defender, settled it in the 100th minute — a close-range finish from a corner after a tense evening that nearly never ended.

Cedric Bakambu had two goals disallowed for offside and missed a string of chances. Jamaica’s defence held for 90 minutes. But DR Congo were relentless, and Tuanzebe’s goal finally broke through.

It is a historic return. DR Congo — competing as Zaire — last appeared at a World Cup in West Germany 52 years ago. They will now compete in Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.

The bitter context for Nigeria is not lost. DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles during the African qualifying campaign. Nigeria went out. DR Congo went through. And now, while Chelle’s men prepare for a Unity Cup in London, the Leopards prepare for one of football’s grandest stages.