The Digest: FIFA and the Confederation of African Football have both hailed the Democratic Republic of Congo after it qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the 10th African nation to secure a spot. The Leopards edged Jamaica 1-0 in their intercontinental playoff final, with Axel Tuanzebe scoring the decisive goal. CAF wrote on X: "52 years later. The return was worth the run. Already proud, DRC." FIFA added: "Dreams unlocked. Congo DR is going to the #FIFAWorldCup." DR Congo's qualification marks their second World Cup appearance, the first since 1974 when the country was known as Zaire.
Key Points:
- DR Congo became the 10th African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- Axel Tuanzebe scored the winning goal in the intercontinental playoff final against Jamaica.
- CAF celebrated the historic qualification, noting the 52-year wait since their last appearance.
- FIFA called it "dreams unlocked" for the Leopards.
- DR Congo defeated Nigeria on penalties in the African playoffs to reach the intercontinental playoff.
Sources: Complete Sports
