DR Congo’s French head coach Sebastien Desabre (L) celebrates with midfielder #10 Theo Bongonda after winning the match and qualifying for the World Cup during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers final playoff football match between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Jamaica at the Akron Stadium in Zapopan, Jalisco state, Mexico, on March 31, 2026. (Photo by Ulises Ruiz / AFP)
By Emmanuel Okogba
Head coach Sébastien Desabre has credited the collective commitment and sacrifices of his players, technical staff, federation officials, government, and the entire nation for DR Congo’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Vanguard reports that Axel Tuanzebe’s goal helped DR Congo beat Jamaica 1-0 to return to football’s global fiesta.
Speaking after securing qualification, Desabre described the achievement as a proud moment for the country and emphasised that it was the result of a united team effort.
“Today we celebrate a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup,” Desabre said. “It is the result of collective effort, sacrifices, and total commitment from the players, the staff, the federation, as well as the unwavering support of the government and the entire nation.”
The Leopards became the last African team to book their ticket to the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Desabre was full of praise for everyone involved in the campaign and dedicated the success to the Congolese people.
“Congratulations to all. This victory is yours,” he added.
DR Congo’s qualification marks a significant milestone for the Central African nation, which last appeared at the World Cup in 1974 (then known as Zaire). The achievement has sparked widespread celebrations across the country.
DR Congo is drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.