By VICTOR OKOYE

The Democratic Republic of Congo in the early hours of Wednesday defeated Jamaica 1-0 after extra time to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 52-year wait.

A 100th-minute goal by Axel Tuanzebe, secured the Leopards’ passage, earning them the 47th slot at the tournament.

The victory marks DR Congo’s first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire.

Tuanzebe scored in Guadalajara, Mexico, converting a corner from Brian Cipenga which deflected past Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake.

DR Congo dominated the early stages, with Cedric Bakambu denied an opening goal after being flagged offside.

Jamaica improved after the break, creating chances from set-pieces but failing to breach the Congolese defence.

Bakambu had another effort ruled out for offside as the Leopards continued to press.

Their persistence paid off in extra time when Cipenga delivered the corner that led to Tuanzebe’s decisive goal.

A lengthy VAR check confirmed the goal, sparking celebrations among DR Congo players and officials.

The game was briefly disrupted in the second half of extra time following an injury to the referee.

Jamaica, however, could not find an equaliser as fatigue set in against a disciplined DR Congo side.

The result means DR Congo will make their second World Cup appearance, having first qualified in 1974.

They have been drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia, and will open their campaign against Portugal on June 17 in Houston, Texas. (NAN)