2026 World Cup qualifiers: Senegal mount thrilling comeback in Kinshasa

Senegal staged a dramatic turnaround to defeat the Democratic Republic of Congo 3-2 in a pulsating World Cup qualifier at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa.

The Group B encounter, played on Tuesday, saw the hosts seize control in the first half before Senegal produced a spirited response to claim a crucial victory.

Cédric Bakambu broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, finishing smartly to hand DR Congo the advantage.

Just seven minutes later, Yoane Wissa doubled the lead, capitalising on defensive uncertainty to put the Leopards 2-0 up.

The early setback left Senegal on the back foot, but their persistence soon paid off.

Pape Gueye pulled one back in the 39th minute, striking to give the Lions of Teranga renewed hope.

The goal shifted the momentum, and by the break the score stood at 2-1, with Senegal showing signs of a comeback despite trailing.

The visitors emerged from the interval with greater intensity, pinning DR Congo back with sustained pressure.

In the 53rd minute, Nicolas Jackson levelled the match, his composed finish bringing Senegal back on equal terms and silencing much of the Kinshasa crowd.

The contest then swung end to end, with both sides creating opportunities in a tense and high-paced second half.

As the game edged towards a draw, Senegal found their decisive moment.

In the 87th minute, Pape Matar Sarr struck the winner, capping the comeback and sending the visiting supporters into celebration.

At the final whistle, Senegal had overturned a two-goal deficit to claim all three points, while DR Congo were left to reflect on a squandered lead at home.

The result has significant implications for Group B.

Senegal now top the standings with 18 points, overtaking DR Congo, who remain on 16.

With qualification for the 2026 World Cup at stake, the victory strengthens Senegal’s position as group leaders and underlines their resilience under pressure.

For DR Congo, the defeat is a setback after a promising start to the campaign.

Despite a strong opening in Kinshasa, their inability to maintain control allowed Senegal’s quality to shine through.

The match will be remembered as one of the most gripping contests of the qualifiers so far, with Senegal’s comeback demonstrating both character and determination in pursuit of a place at the World Cup.