DR Congo qualify for World Cup after 52-year absence
DR Congo secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1974, beating Jamaica 1-0 in extra time. Axel Tuanzebe's dramatic late goal proved decisive in Mexico, making the Leopards the 10th African team to qualify. Their journey included eliminating Cameroon and Nigeria in the African play-offs, where they beat Nigeria on penalties.
The Leopards, formerly known as Zaire, were among Africa's early World Cup pioneers and only the third African nation to qualify after Egypt (1934) and Morocco (1970). They finished second in their CAF group behind Senegal before navigating a tough play-off path.
Nigeria's failed protest over player eligibility didn't change the outcome, as FIFA allowed DR Congo to participate. This means the Super Eagles will miss consecutive World Cups for the first time since their 1994 debut. For African football fans, this represents both celebration for DR Congo's historic return and reflection on Nigeria's declining fortunes on the world stage.
With 32 teams confirmed including DR Congo, which African nation's qualification surprised you most, and what does this say about the changing power dynamics in African football?