Goma, Congo (AP) – Congo erupted into jubilation overnight after a 100th-minute goal against Jamaica returned the African nation to the World Cup for the first time in more than half a century.
Across the country, people danced, shouted and hugged, a rare moment of joy in a country hit by conflict in its mineral-rich eastern region.
Axel Tuanzebe’s extra-time goal from a corner kick seals Congo’s place in the World Cup. Defeat Jamaica 1-0 during Tuesday night’s game in Guadalajara, Mexico.
That goal and the victory over Jamaica came as a huge relief to millions of people in Central Africa, who have long become accustomed to the news. Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group Decades of conflict has pitted government forces in the east, resulting in one of the world’s biggest humanitarian crises, with at least 7 million people displaced.
Congo’s last appearance in the World Cup was in Germany in 1974. Later, the country took on another name: Zaire. There was also a different reality than today, where rebel groups backed by Rwanda controlled vast swathes of land and territory. Eastern region rich in minerals.
“Look at this crowd. We are full of joy because the victory is ours. We are very happy,” said a gleeful Alan Kagama in a bar in the city of Goma, a center of violence that has been under rebel control for more than a year.
“It’s been a while since I laughed, but I’m happy today,” Kagama added.
The victory united the country and drew praise from both the government and the opposition.
The video showed Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi celebrating by hugging soccer fans and officials as the Congolese government praised the team’s victory. M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka told The Associated Press that the nation is excited about the team.
Kayuka said, “I’m very happy to be able to represent the Congolese national team in the next World Cup. I’m happy.”
Since January 2025, fighting has intensified between the Congolese army and the M23 after rebels swept through the eastern region and captured the main cities of Goma and Bukavu.
The conflict has escalated despite a ceasefire brokered by the United States and Qatar. And clashes and drone attacks continue, including February drone attack It killed a senior rebel army official.
With victory in the intercontinental play-off, Congo will advance to Group K of the World Cup, where they will face Colombia, Portugal and Uzbekistan.
As the team celebrated and danced at Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico, many were glued to their screens, clutching tightly to the excitement that didn’t want to pass.
“Today is truly a historic day. As you can see, we are full of joy. … The last to see us at the World Cup were our parents, and today we are part of the story we will tell our children,” said Goma fan Christian Mihigo.
—-
McMakin reported from Dakar, Senegal.
