Axel Tuanzebe scored the only goal as DR Congo beat Jamaica after extra-time to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974. The Burnley defender's tap-in in the 100th minute ended his nation's 52-year absence from the tournament, when they were known as Zaire.
The match was tightly contested, with Real Betis striker Cédric Bakambu having two goals ruled out for offside and forcing a smart save from Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake, whose performance kept the game goalless after 90 minutes.
The breakthrough came from a set-piece, with a cross falling to Tuanzebe at the back post. He poked home beyond the imperious Blake to send the Congolese fans into delirium.
Jamaica could not find an equaliser in the second half of extra-time, which was disrupted by an injury to referee Facundo Tello, who left the pitch in tears with a calf problem.
“We made it a very difficult game for ourselves,” Tuanzebe said afterwards. “To get the winning goal for the country, that is something as a young boy you dream about. It has happened for me and I am so very happy.”
DR Congo’s 18-month campaign involved 13 matches. They will face Portugal in Houston in their opening group game, while Jamaica are left to rue Steve McLaren’s resignation as manager in November, leaving an interim in charge for the final matches.
