No World Cup for Reggae Boyz as DR Congo books spot

GUADALAJARA – The long wait is over. For the first time in 52 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo will grace the World Cup stage after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Jamaica in their intercontinental play-off final at Estadio AKRON in Mexico on Tuesday.

In a tense affair that stretched into extra time, it was defender Axel Tuanzebe who etched his name into Congolese folklore, poking home from close range in the 100th minute to spark wild celebrations and book their ticket to this summer’s tournament in North America.

The victory sets up a challenging Group F assignment for the Leopards, who will face Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia at the World Cup.

Congo started with intensity, but early on, striker Cedric Bakambu was repeatedly frustrated by Jamaican goalkeeper Andre Blake.

At the other end, Ethan Pinnock’s header was easily gathered by Lionel Mpasi. The woodwork was rattled twice before halftime, first by Congo’s Meschack Elia, then by Jamaica’s Leon Bailey with a long-range effort, as the sides went into the break deadlocked.

Bakambu continued to be a menace after the restart, testing Blake again before Yoane Wissa fired wide. As clear-cut chances remained elusive, the match appeared destined for extra time.

Congo thought they had snatched it in the 85th minute when Bakambu bundled the ball over the line, but the flag was swiftly raised, with Theo Bongonda judged offside in the buildup.

But with penalties looming, Tuanzebe delivered the decisive blow. In the 100th minute, Jamaica failed to clear an in-swinging corner, and the defender was on hand inside the six-yard box to fire home and send the DR Congo contingent into delirium.

The statistics underlined Congo’s deserved victory. Steve Kompany’s side generated 1.45 expected goals from 19 shots, while holding the Reggae Boyz to just 0.3 from six attempts.

Though Bakambu didn’t score, he was a relentless force, leading all players with five shots, two on target, and eight touches in the opposition box.

For Jamaica, it was a heartbreaking end to their World Cup dream. Despite enjoying 52.5 per cent possession and completing more passes (437 to 389), they failed to translate control into meaningful chances.

A dejected coach, Rudolph Speid, reflected on the fine margins that decided the contest.

“I think we lost concentration on a set play, and I think that made the difference between winning and losing,” Speid said. “The players gave 100 per cent. I thought the players played in a more relaxed manner. We had confidence and belief.

“The players, coaching staff, we tried our best. We got a few opportunities, but it wasn’t to be. We tried our best, and I think that is what most Jamaicans expected.”

CMC