The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Leopards secured a 1-0 victory over Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz in the final intercontinental playoff match, after extra time. The game took place in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Actualite.cd reports that the Congolese Fauves showed great courage and determination in securing this qualification against a formidable opponent who played their game as expected.
“With an unchanged team, Sebastien Desabre and his players faced a tough match as anticipated, but they managed to outsmart all the Jamaican attempts that could have harmed them. They applied pressure when needed and scored at crucial moments. It was known that this match would be decided by details, which was confirmed on the field,” noted a colleague, highlighting the national team’s historic victory after 52 years.
According to ACP, the Congolese Press Agency, the Ministry of Employment and Labor in the DRC declared April 1, 2026, a public holiday to celebrate the Leopards’ qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
The special day was designated by President Felix Tshisekedi and the government to allow the Congolese population to celebrate in unity, fervor, and national pride. The late-night qualification of the Leopards will be an opportunity for all Congolese to savor this achievement in Mexico before their triumphant return.
This morning’s newspapers are filled with expressions of joy and historical significance as the Leopards return to the global stage after 52 years of absence since 1974.
Several media outlets, including Actu30.Cd, Le Potentiel, Infos27, and 7sur7.Cd, praise the team’s heroic performance in breaking the curse and ending a prolonged wait for a World Cup qualification, symbolizing national resilience and achievement after decades of disappointments.
