Congo has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Jamaica 1-0 in an inter-confederation playoff final on Tuesday. The historic victory marks the nation's first appearance at the tournament since the 1974 edition held in West Germany.

The match was decided in extra time by defender Axel Tuanzebe, who scored the winning goal in the 100th minute. The strike was Tuanzebe's first ever for his country, securing Congo's place in the upcoming global finals.

With this result, Congo joins the contingent of African nations set to compete at the World Cup, which includes Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cape Verde, and South Africa.

Congo has been drawn into Group K for the tournament. Their campaign will begin against Portugal on June 17 at NRG Stadium in Houston. They will also face Colombia and Uzbekistan in the group stage.