DR Congo national football team have qualified for their first World Cup in 52 years after a 1-0 extra-time victory over Jamaica national football team in their intercontinental playoff final.

Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute, converting from a deflected corner to seal a historic win in Guadalajara, Mexico. The goal, his first at international level, was briefly checked by VAR before being confirmed.

Both teams struggled to break the deadlock in regulation time, with DR Congo seeing two goals from Cédric Bakambu ruled out for offside. Jamaica pushed late on but failed to create clear chances.

The Leopards now advance to the expanded 48-team tournament, where they will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in Group K.

This marks DR Congo’s first appearance at the World Cup since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.

The victory caps a long qualification journey under coach Sébastien Desabre, who has guided the team to renewed stability and continental competitiveness.

For the nation, the qualification represents a major moment of pride after decades away from football’s biggest stage.