DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in the Africa play-off final
DR Congo now have a clear route to the 2026 World Cup after the intercontinental play-off draw in Zurich paired them with either Jamaica or New Caledonia in a single decisive match on March 31, 2025.
The Leopards advanced to this stage after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, a result that secured their place among the two seeded teams based on FIFA ranking.
Their opponent will be determined when Jamaica face New Caledonia in a semi-final game.
The winner of that tie will progress to meet DR Congo in Mexico, where the final play-off tournament will be held.
The other seeded team, Iraq, will await the winner of the Bolivia versus Suriname semi-final.
For DR Congo, the draw represents the final barrier to a long-awaited World Cup return. The nation last appeared at the tournament in 1974, competing under the name Zaire.
Their recent triumph over Nigeria showcased their composure, with goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu saving two penalties to secure qualification for the play-off stage.
The Leopards now stand one game away from history.
With Mexico set to host the play-off finals, DR Congo will enter the decisive match knowing that victory guarantees a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup.
