DR Congo Calls for Peace After World Cup Qualification DR Congo secured the final African spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 extra-time victory over JamaicaFecofa in the intercontinental play-offs. The Leopards’ triumph, achieved at Guadalajara Stadium in Mexico, marks their return to the global tournament after a 52-year absence. The decisive goal came from Axel Tuanzebe, whose extra-time strike secured the qualification and will be remembered as a pivotal moment for the nation. This achievement, the first World Cup qualification since 1974, has sparked calls for unity and peace in a country plagued by conflict in the eastern regions. Cedric Bakambu, the DR Congo national team striker, has urged the nation to leverage the qualification as a catalyst for reconciliation. In a social media post, Bakambu emphasized the importance of using the World Cup as a platform to amplify the country’s voice on the global stage. “Together, let’s make Congo’s voice heard,” he wrote, while also highlighting the suffering endured by civilians in the East. He framed the team’s efforts on the field as a tribute to those affected by the ongoing war, stating that every step toward the tournament represents hope for the Congolese people. Bakambu’s message underscores the intersection of sports and politics, positioning the World Cup qualification as a symbol of collective resilience. The qualification also marks the beginning of a new era for DR Congo’s football infrastructure. Bakambu called for investment in modernizing sporting facilities, supporting youth development, and expanding football’s reach across the country. His vision aligns with broader aspirations to transform the nation’s approach to sports, viewing it as a unifying force capable of fostering national pride and stability.#world_cup_2026 #dr_congo #cedric_bakambu #axel_tuanzebe #group_k
