Cedric Bakambu guides DR Congo in joyous celebration of long-awaited FIFA World Cup qualification
The Leopards secured their place in the 2026 World Cup with an exciting victory, thanks to Axel Tuanzebes extra time goal that defeated Jamaica at Guadalajara Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Wednesday.
Tuanzebe will cherish the memory of his goal for years, as it marked DR Congos first World Cup qualification since 1974. The defender broke free from his opponent and slotted a low shot into the net for the decisive strike.
DR Congo endured many challenges
When we return to Kinshasa, it will be absolute madness, Bakambu shared with FIFA.com following the match. I am eager to reunite with the Congolese fans. We have not yet fully grasped the significance.
The Real Batis forward continued: I have never witnessed Congo competing in the World Cup. I intend to savour every instant.
There are overwhelming feelings at the moment; I struggle to express myself, remarked Ngalayel Mukau, while captain Chancel Mbemba declared: It is a dream realised.
Mbemba further noted: We trained diligently, endured significant hardships. We faced numerous difficulties. We battled for this spot on behalf of all Congolese and African supporters. We feel immense pride. At last, we can affirm our participation in the World Cup.
Samuel Moutoussamy, a midfielder for Greek Super League side Atromitos, joined wholeheartedly in the festivities.
The player stated: I have harboured this aspiration without reservation. It has been my goal from the outset of my football journey.
From the moment I joined Lyons youth academy in 2011, my family and I discussed how the ultimate aim was to feature in a World Cup. We have achieved it.
DR Congo shot stopper Lionel Mpasi reflected: We have travelled a great distance. Seeing the widespread joy reminds us that our efforts were worthwhile.
DR Congo last competed in 1974
The pressure was immense during this decisive qualifier in Zapopan, Mexico, as both teams sought to reach the World Cup for only the second time in their histories.
DR Congo controlled the initial play, with Bakambu nearly scoring as the first 15 minutes neared. He was inexplicably free in the penalty area, heading towards goal from Nathanael Mbukus free kick, but Andre Blake easily caught it against his body.
The Leopards yearned to return to the international tournament, set to occur from June 11 to July 19 and co hosted across 16 cities: 11 in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Canada.
This edition marks the first FIFA World Cup hosted by three countries and the first with 48 participating teams, up from the previous 32.
DR Congo previously featured in the FIFA World Cup in 1974, representing Zaire as the inaugural Sub Saharan African qualifier. They ended bottom of their group, suffering defeats in all three encounters.
Their campaign began with a 2 0 loss to Scotland, followed by a 9 0 defeat against Yugoslavia, and concluded with a 3 0 setback versus Brazil in Group 2.
DR Congo now enters Group K for the finals, alongside Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan.