For the first time in history, a footballer from Armenia will play at the 2026 World Cup

The DR Congo national team has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff final.

The only goal of the match was scored in extra time. In the 100th minute, defender Axel Tuanzebe found the net following a corner kick, bringing his team a historic win.

The match was a cautious tactical battle, with both sides focusing on solid defensive play. However, the African side looked sharper, creating more dangerous chances and posing a greater attacking threat. As a result, DR Congo achieved a well-deserved victory.

This qualification marks only the second World Cup appearance in the country’s history. The first came in 1974, when the team competed under the name Zaire.

Notably, the Armenian championship will also be represented at the tournament in North America. For the first time ever, an active player from the Armenian Premier League will play at a World Cup: Noah club goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu will travel to the tournament as part of the DR Congo squad. Although he remained on the bench in this match, he contributed to the team’s qualification. In the African playoff final against Nigeria, Fayulu came on during extra time for the penalty shootout and helped secure victory by saving two penalties.

In the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, DR Congo will compete in Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. The tournament will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The final participant of the 2026 World Cup will be determined in the match between Iraq and Bolivia.

From the Armenian Championship to the World Cup: from the local stage to the global arena