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The Democratic Republic of Congo booked their first World Cup appearance in 52 years after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in an intercontinental play-off on Tuesday.
Burnley defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in the 100th minute at Akron Stadium near Guadalajara, sending the Congolese team, known as the Leopards, to this summer’s finals.
They will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in Group K.
Tuanzebe bundled in a close-range finish from an in-swinging corner during extra time, breaking a stalemate after 90 minutes of goalless play in hot and humid conditions.
The victory caps a dramatic qualification campaign for DR Congo, who eliminated African heavyweights Nigeria and Cameroon to reach the intercontinental playoff.
The central African nation last played at the World Cup in 1974 in West Germany as Zaire, losing to Scotland, Yugoslavia, and Brazil.
Congo dominated possession for much of the match but struggled to break down a resilient Jamaican defense.
Real Betis striker Cedric Bakambu had two goals ruled out for offside, while Meschack Elia and substitute Edo Kayembe also tested Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake with near misses.
Jamaica’s only notable chance came midway through the first half when Kasey Palmer’s deflected shot went wide.
The breakthrough finally arrived in extra time when Tuanzebe met a corner in the six-yard box to put Congo ahead, sending their fans into celebration and securing their return to football’s biggest stage.
