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DRC await Caledonia or Jamaica in World Cup playoff
The Democratic Republic of Congo players line up before their 2026 Fifa World Cup - Caf qualifiers playoffs against Nigeria at Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium, Rabat in Morocco on November 16, 2025.
Photo credit: Reuters
What you need to know:
- The Democratic Republic of Congo kept alive hopes of a World Cup place as they edged out Nigeria 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time.
- Jamaica failed to get the win needed over Curacao to qualify directly, leading Steve McClaren to resign as their head coach despite reaching the playoffs.
The Democratic Republic of Congo will play either New Caledonia or Jamaica to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after the inter-confederation playoff tournament draw was held on Thursday to decide the pathways that determine two slots for the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Iraq await either Bolivia or Suriname in the other pathway. The six teams from the AFC, CAF, CONCACAF, CONMEBOL and the OFC confederations will play in the inter-confederation playoff tournament in Guadalajara and Monterrey in March.
