The streets of Kinshasa were alive with anticipation. For decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo had been a sleeping giant in African football - rich in talent, yet starved of global recognition. Now, the dream of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup is closer than ever.
The draw in Zurich on Thursday set the stage: DR Congo, one of two seeded teams, will await the winner of New Caledonia v Jamaica in the playoff final. The venue? Guadalajara, Mexico—a city steeped in football history. The stakes? A ticket to the biggest stage in world football – Canada, Mexico and USA 2026.
THE WEIGHT OF HISTORY
For Congolese fans, this is not just about football. It is about rewriting a narrative. The last time Congo appeared at a World Cup was in 1974, under the name Zaire. That campaign ended in heartbreak, remembered more for its controversies than its triumphs. Now, a new generation - led by stars like Cédric Bakambu, Gaël Kakuta, and a rising wave of Europe-based talent—was determined to change that.
Semifinal 1: New Caledonia v Jamaica
A clash of contrasting styles—Pacific grit against Caribbean flair. The winner would earn the right to face Congo, a team brimming with confidence after a strong AFCON qualifying run.
Final: DR Congo v Winner of SF1
For Congo, this is both a blessing and a burden. Skipping the semifinal meant fresher legs, but also the pressure of being favourites. Every Congolese fan knew: one bad night could shatter the dream.
Your matchups for the FIFA World Cup 26 Play-Off Tournament! 🆚
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 20, 2025
Which two are headed to 🇨🇦🇺🇸🇲🇽? pic.twitter.com/Ba9yBHN8B7
The inter-confederation playoff is more than a tournament—it is a melting pot of football cultures. From the Pacific islands to the Caribbean, from South America to Africa, six nations were chasing two golden tickets. For Congo, it is a chance to announce themselves as a force beyond Africa—a team ready to roar on the world stage.
As March 2026 approaches, the Leopards train with intensity. The coaching staff studies Jamaica’s pace and New Caledonia’s resilience. Every session is a step toward history. In Kinshasa, fans prepare for sleepless nights, their hearts beating to the rhythm of hope.
For DR Congo, Guadalajara isn’t just a city. It’s destiny.
