DR Congo one win away from historic World Cup return after intercontinental play-off draw
20th November 2025
DR Congo now stand just one match away from a long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup, following the intercontinental play-off draw in Zurich that paired them with the winner of Jamaica vs New Caledonia.
The decisive fixture will take place on March 31, 2025, in Mexico, which will host the final play-off tournament. DR Congo earned their spot as one of two seeded teams after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, with goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu saving two spot-kicks to seal the win.
The other seeded team, Iraq, will face the winner of Bolivia vs Suriname in the second play-off final.
A Shot at Redemption
DR Congo’s last World Cup appearance came in in 1974, when they competed under the name Zaire. More than five decades later, the Leopards are on the brink of rewriting history.
“The draw represents the final barrier to a long-awaited World Cup return,” said a CAF official. “It’s a moment of pride and possibility for Congolese football.”
Coming Up Next:
- Jamaica vs New Caledonia: Semi-final to determine DR Congo’s opponent
- March 31, 2025: DR Congo face the winner in Mexico
- Winner qualifies for the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup
With momentum from their victory over Nigeria and a squad brimming with belief, DR Congo will approach the play-off final knowing that one win secures their place on football’s biggest stage.