The Democratic Republic of Congo secured a historic return to the FIFA World Cup, edging Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in the early hours of Wednesday.
A decisive 100th-minute strike from Axel Tuanzebe sealed qualification for the Leopards, marking their first appearance at the global tournament since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.
Tuanzebe’s goal came in Guadalajara, Mexico, as he converted a corner from Brian Cipenga that deflected past Jamaica’s goalkeeper Andre Blake.
DR Congo dominated early proceedings, with Cedric Bakambu twice denied by offside calls. Jamaica responded strongly in the second half but failed to break through a disciplined Congolese defense.
The breakthrough finally came in extra time, with a VAR check confirming Tuanzebe’s goal, sparking wild celebrations.
Despite a late disruption caused by a referee injury, Jamaica couldn’t find an equaliser as fatigue set in.
The victory earns DR Congo their second-ever World Cup appearance.
They have been drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia, and will kick off their campaign against Portugal on June 17 in Houston, Texas.