Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe scored in extra time as DR Congo defeated Jamaica 1-0 in the qualifying play-offs.
Published March 31, 2026
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) became the latest team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in extra time in the intercontinental play-off final.
Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the only goal in the first half of extra time to settle a draw in what would normally have been a tense match.
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The former England Under-21 international fired the ball over the goal line from a corner kick in the 100th minute, but had to wait over a minute to be checked for possible handball before the goal was confirmed.
“We created a very difficult situation for ourselves, but perhaps this opportunity worked in our favor,” Tuanzebe said. He currently plays club soccer for Burnley in the English Premier League.
“Scoring the winning goal for your country…this is what every player dreams of.”
“I’m very proud of what I can do for my country. I’m very proud of this country. It’s a time to celebrate.”
Although there weren’t many clear-cut chances at the Estadio Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s three World Cup venues, it was no surprise that the Congolese players dominated the game in a fast-paced game.
With this win, 10 teams from Africa will line up for the 2026 edition of soccer’s marquee event.
DRC advanced to the intercontinental stage by defeating Nigeria in a playoff at the end of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) qualifying round.
Jamaica reached this stage on Thursday by defeating New Caledonia on the intercontinental route, but DRC are ranked as one of the African teams and will continue to advance to the final.
Zaire has only reached the final once before, in 1974. Similarly, Jamaica’s only appearance in the final was in France in 1998.
DRC will now join Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in the World Cup group and will face the former in their opening match.
The final World Cup spot will be decided later on Tuesday in the other intercontinental final between Iraq and Bolivia.
