DR Congo Secure Historic World Cup Qualification After Tuanzebe’s Extra-Time Heroics
DR Congo becomes 10th African country to qualify for the world cup
31 mar 2026
17:00
World Cup Qualification Inter-Confederation
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The Democratic Republic of Congo have booked their place at the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years, thanks to a dramatic extra-time victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off final.
In a tense and closely fought encounter at the Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico, it was Burnley defender Axel Tuanzebe who emerged as the hero. His decisive goal in extra time handed DR Congo a narrow 1-0 win and confirmed their long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.
This historic qualification ends a 52-year drought and marks a significant milestone for DR Congo football. The team will now shift focus to the tournament itself, where they face a tough challenge in Group K against Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.