DR Congo are on the brink of a historic return to the FIFA World Cup, with head coach Sébastien Desabre confident his side is fully motivated ahead of Tuesday’s inter-continental playoff final against Jamaica.
The Leopards have not featured at the global showpiece since 1970, but Desabre believes the current squad has the hunger and focus to end that long wait. Speaking ahead of the decisive clash, the French tactician said his players are “really fired up” to complete a journey he began when he took over the team three-and-a-half years ago.
Since his appointment after the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Desabre has steadily rebuilt the side into a competitive force. He guided DR Congo to a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, although they fell short of expectations at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, exiting in the round of 16. Despite that setback, World Cup qualification remained the ultimate objective.
Their road to this playoff has been impressive. DR Congo narrowly missed automatic qualification, finishing second in Group B behind Senegal after recording seven wins, one draw and two defeats. They responded strongly in the playoffs, defeating Cameroon 1–0 in the semi-finals before edging Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in a tense final.
Confidence within the camp has been boosted by a solid 2–0 warm-up victory over Bermuda on March 25, further underlining their readiness for the decisive encounter.
Jamaica, however, present a formidable challenge. Coached by Rudolph Speid, the Reggae Boyz also came close to automatic qualification, finishing just one point behind Curaçao in their group. They secured their place in the playoff final with a narrow 1–0 win over New Caledonia.
For DR Congo, much of the attacking responsibility will rest on experienced striker Cédric Bakambu. The 34-year-old is just one goal away from equaling Dieumerci Mbokani’s national scoring record of 22 goals. Bakambu has been in fine form, scoring four goals during the group stage and adding another in the playoff victory over Nigeria.
Jamaica will look to Leon Bailey for inspiration. The 28-year-old winger recently returned from injury and featured in the win over New Caledonia. Back with Aston Villa after a loan spell at AS Roma, Bailey’s pace and creativity could prove decisive as Jamaica chase a place at what would be only their second World Cup appearance.
