The Democratic Republic of Congo ended a 52-year World Cup drought with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Jamaica in extra time during the intercontinental playoff final in Guadalajara on Tuesday.
Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute, deflecting a corner kick into the net with his thigh to send the Leopards to their first World Cup since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.
The match proved a test of endurance rather than artistry. DR Congo dominated early proceedings, with Cédric Bakambu having a goal disallowed for offside in the fourth minute after an impressive team move. The Betis striker remained dangerous throughout the first half, forcing Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake into several saves.
As the stakes intensified, both teams struggled with precision. Jamaica's Leon Bailey came closest to breaking the deadlock in regular time, his 30-yard effort grazing Lionel Mpasi's post. The Reggae Boyz played with courage but lacked the clinical edge needed against increasingly desperate Congolese defenders.
DR Congo had two more goals ruled out for offside during the 90 minutes, with Theo Bongonda's late effort adding to their frustration. The Video Assistant Referee intervened multiple times, creating tension as both teams searched for the breakthrough.
French outlets emphasized the historic nature of DR Congo's qualification and the emotional significance of ending a 52-year absence. They portrayed the victory as hard-earned despite an uninspiring performance, focusing on the dramatic nature of the extra-time winner.
Chilean coverage provided a straightforward match report focusing on key moments and tactical details. The outlet highlighted the controversial VAR decisions and positioned the result within the broader context of World Cup qualification.
Extra time brought fresh energy from Congolese substitutes Cipenga and Kayembe, who helped lift the tempo. The breakthrough finally came when Tuanzebe, the Burnley defender, reacted quickest to a deflected corner at the near post.
VAR reviewed the goal for several anxious minutes before confirming the score, triggering emotional celebrations among Congolese players who had carried the weight of five decades of World Cup absence.
The victory secures DR Congo's place in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia at the 2026 tournament. Coach Sébastien Desabre's team becomes the tenth African nation to qualify for the expanded 48-team World Cup.
Jamaica's World Cup hopes end in heartbreak, despite a disciplined defensive performance that frustrated the Congolese attack for most of the match. The Caribbean side's physical approach nearly paid dividends but ultimately fell short in the decisive moments.