Democratic Republic of the Congo fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, dressed as the country’s independence hero Patrice Lumumba, as fans watch the FIFA World Cup Inter-Confederation Playoff match between DR Congo and Jamaica in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo March 31, 2026.
REUTERS/Arsene Mpiana
The Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Jamaica 1–0 after extra time in Tuesday’s inter-confederation playoff, booking their first World Cup appearance in 52 years. Former England Under-21 international Axel Tuanzebe bundled home from a corner in the 100th minute, then endured a tense VAR check for a possible handball before the goal was confirmed.
The Congolese, appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974, largely controlled a fast-flowing contest that produced few clear chances at Estadio Guadalajara — one of three Mexican venues for the June 11–July 19 tournament, which will also be co-hosted by the United States and Canada.
Jamaica had moved to within one win of its first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1998 after defeating New Caledonia 1–0 in an intercontinental playoff semifinal in Guadalajara, Mexico, on March 26, 2026.
The Reggae Boyz produced a disciplined display, with Bailey-Tye Cadamarteri scoring the decisive goal in the 18th minute when he reacted quickest to a rebound from a free kick and finished from close range. It was his second goal of the qualifying campaign, following an earlier strike against Trinidad and Tobago.
Jamaica controlled much of the first half but faced a tougher challenge after the break, as the match became a physical, slow affair. The high altitude at Estadio Akron — more than 5,000 feet above sea level — appeared to affect both teams, limiting the tempo and the chances.
Despite late pressure from New Caledonia, Jamaica’s defense held firm to secure the narrow but crucial victory.
The result had set up a decisive clash with the Democratic Republic of Congo with a World Cup spot on the line. The winner will advance to the tournament and join a group featuring Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.
