World Cup 2026 playoff final: How does DR Congo fare against CONCACAF opponents?

31.03.26 AET World Cup Qualification Inter-Confederation

DR Congo

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:

Jamaica

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DR Congo faces Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff final this Tuesday, March 31, at 9 p.m. GMT in Guadalajara. At stake: a coveted spot in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Both national teams are fighting to clinch a historic second qualification for the world’s greatest football showpiece. The Leopards last graced the World Cup in 1974 in Germany, while the Reggae Boyz made their debut at France 1998.

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This DR Congo vs Jamaica clash marks a first-ever meeting between the two nations, who have never faced each other before. However, DR Congo does have prior experience against a CONCACAF opponent.

Indeed, the Leopards locked horns with Mexico on May 12, 2026, in a friendly at the iconic Estadio Azteca. In front of 80,000 fans, the Leopards narrowly lost (2-1).

Despite a second-half goal from Dieumerci Mbokani, the national team’s legendary striker, DR Congo couldn’t overturn the deficit and fell to a Mexican side gearing up for the 2026 World Cup.

Congo fans are hoping for a different outcome against Jamaica. A win would mark a sensational return to the World Cup after a 52-year wait.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

Related teams and leagues

DR Congo

Jamaica

World Cup Qualification Inter-Confederation