FIFA and CAF have praised DR Congo after their 1-0 win over Jamaica secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, ending a 52-year wait

FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have praised the Democratic Republic of Congo after the nation secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

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DR Congo national football team edged Jamaica 1-0 in the intercontinental playoff final on Wednesday morning.

The decisive moment came as Axel Tuanzebe scored the winning goal to seal a historic return to the global stage.

DR Congo will now make only their second World Cup appearance, and their first since 1974 when they competed as Zaire.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) celebrated the achievement on social media, describing it as a long-awaited return after 52 years.

FIFA also congratulated the team, highlighting the emotional significance of their qualification journey.

The Congolese side had earlier defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties to reach the intercontinental playoff final.

Their qualification also makes them the 10th African nation to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup.

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The result marks a major milestone in Congolese football history and completes an impressive qualification campaign.