DRC back in the World Cup, 52 years later: a feat hailed by FIFA and CAF
Beating Jamaica in the playoff, the DRC clinches its qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a historic return to the global stage more than half a century after 1974. A return to the world’s biggest competition, hailed by CAF and FIFA.
FIFA and the Confederation of African Football hailed the performance of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Leopards sealed their ticket by prevailing (1-0) against Jamaica, Wednesday morning, in the intercontinental playoff final. The decisive goalscorer, Axel Tuanzebe, became the hero of a nation in jubilation, allowing the DRC to become the tenth African national team qualified for the global tournament.
This will be the DR Congo’s second World Cup appearance, after 1974, played under the name Zaire. On its social media, CAF hailed this historic feat: « 52 years later. The journey was worth it. Already proud, DR Congo. » For its part, FIFA also congratulated the Congolese team: « A dream come true. DR Congo has qualified for the World Cup. » Before this success against Jamaica, the DRC had earned its place in the final by defeating Nigeria (4-3 on penalties).
