Rwanda has congratulated the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the national team’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in a message highlighting football’s role in fostering unity.
Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo praised the Leopards’ achievement, noting that football has the power to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and should serve as a force for cohesion rather than division.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Jean Maurice Uwera also commended the team, describing the qualification as a proud moment for Africa on the global stage.
DR Congo secured their place at the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in a playoff match in Guadalajara, Mexico. Defender Axel Tuanzebe scored the decisive goal in extra time after both sides were level at the end of regulation.
The result marks DR Congo’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire. It also makes them one of Africa’s representatives at the expanded 2026 tournament, to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
DR Congo have been drawn into Group K, where they will face Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
