The dream of DR Congo returning to the mundial may become a reality as the six-nation tourney draw conducted by FIFA looks very favourable.As things stands now, 90 minutes is standing between DRC and a return to the World Cup, which the last and only time they appeared was in 1974 under the name of Zaire.
The draw conducted by world football governing body, will see the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) playing just a match in the Intercontinental Play-Off or the 2026 World Cup qualification to pick a world cup ticket, if they win.
The team that edged Nigeria out can seize their moment after Thursday’s inter-confederation playoff draw placed them one win away from a historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As one of the two seeded teams in the six-nation tournament, DR Congo advanced directly to the final of Pathway 1, where they will face either New Caledonia or Jamaica in March in Guadalajara or Monterrey, Mexico.
For Congolese fans still celebrating their dramatic victory over Nigeria in the African qualifying playoffs, the draw represents a realistic route to their first-ever World Cup appearance.
DR Congo defeated continental giants Nigeria 4–3 on penalties after a tense 1–1 draw, keeping alive their long-held ambition of reaching football’s biggest stage.
A Pathway Full of Possibilities
In Pathway 1, New Caledonia will face Jamaica in the semi-final, with the winner taking on DR Congo in the final. Jamaica, who failed to secure direct qualification after dropping crucial points against Curaçao, have been plunged into uncertainty following the resignation of head coach Steve McClaren. New Caledonia will be seeking a rare global breakthrough.
Observers say either opponent presents challenges, but Congo’s recent form and rising confidence give them an edge.
Momentum on Congo’s Side
Congo’s strong defensive organisation and ability to hold their nerve under pressure were on display during their playoff triumph over Nigeria. The squad also carries the motivation of a nation longing to return to global football relevance.
A DR Congo victory in March would mark an extraordinary milestone, ending decades of near-misses and disappointment in African World Cup qualifying history.
The Bigger Picture
The inter-confederation playoff tournament features six teams from CAF, AFC, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL and OFC. Seeded alongside DR Congo, Iraq progressed directly to the final of Pathway 2, where they will face the winner between Bolivia and Suriname. Iraq are attempting to qualify for their first World Cup since their 1986 debut.
A separate UEFA playoff draw was also conducted, with 16 European teams battling for four remaining spots.
Inter-Confederation Playoff Draw (From DR Congo’s Pathway)
PATHWAY 1
Semi-final: New Caledonia vs Jamaica
Final: DR Congo vs Winner of SF1
