DR Congo seals Africa’s final World Cup spot

DR Congo has clinched Africa’s 10th and final ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, capping a remarkable qualifying journey that took them through the inter‑continental play‑off pathway.

This historic achievement sends the Leopards back to the global stage for the first time since 1974, a moment of redemption for a generation that has knocked on the door of major tournaments in recent years.

Drawn into Group K, DR Congo will share the spotlight with European champions Portugal, rising Asian side Uzbekistan and South American contenders Colombia, setting up one of the tournament’s most intriguing sections.

The Congolese will open their World Cup campaign against Portugal, a heavyweight clash scheduled in Houston that will test Chancel Mbemba and his teammates against one of the favourites from the very start.

For a nation that had to survive Africa’s extended qualifiers and then a high‑pressure play‑off final to book its place, every minute in Group K will feel like a reward and a new challenge rolled into one. Fans across Africa will now rally behind DR Congo as the continent’s last qualifiers aim to upset the established order on football’s biggest stage.