Chancel Mbemba emerged as the hero with a late winner, leading DR Congo to a 1-0 victory over Cameroon and securing a spot in the African play-offs final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Nigeria.
The Leopards’ captain cleverly slipped away from his marker to convert a deep corner taken by Brian Cipenga in the first minute of stoppage time, shocking the five-time continental champions.
Cameroon, known for holding the African record with eight World Cup appearances, will miss out on next year’s expanded 48-team tournament.
With both teams closely ranked in the world standings, the semi-final turned into a tense encounter, especially as heavy rain complicated the playing conditions in neutral Rabat.
Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana made a superb low save to thwart Cedric Bakambu around the hour mark, while Bryan Mbeumo narrowly missed a chance just five minutes later. In the closing moments, Mbeumo’s teammate Karl Etta Eyong also failed to capitalise on two late opportunities before Mbemba’s dramatic late strike sealed the match.
DR Congo, which last appeared in the World Cup as Zaire in 1974, faces a tough challenge against Nigeria, which defeated Gabon 4-1 in extra time.
The winner of this continental play-off final will move on to a six-team intercontinental qualifier in March for the last two spots in next year’s World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
