DR Congo qualify for World Cup after 52 years
The match, played at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, remained deadlocked until the 100th minute when defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the winner.
KATHMANDU: The Democratic Republic of Congo have secured a historic return to the FIFA World Cup after 52 years, defeating Jamaica 1–0 in extra time in a decisive playoff clash.
The match, played at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, remained deadlocked until the 100th minute when defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the winner.
The goal came after a corner from Bryan Sipehng deflected off Jamaica’s Joel Latibeaudiere and fell kindly to Tuanzebe, who made no mistake.
The referee briefly reviewed the goal for a possible handball using VAR, but it was ultimately awarded, sparking celebrations among the Congolese side.
Earlier in the match, DR Congo striker Cedric Bakambu had two goals ruled out for offside, denying him a place on the scoresheet.
Jamaica, meanwhile, struggled to create clear chances throughout the game and failed to find an equalizer.
With this victory, DR Congo seal their first World Cup appearance in over five decades.
They are now set to compete in Group K, alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
