Chancel Mbemba delivered a moment of pure drama as DR Congo edged Cameroon 1–0 to book their place in the final of the African play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Leopards’ captain rose to the occasion—quite literally—slipping away from his marker to steer in Brian Cipenga’s looping corner in the first minute of stoppage time. His late heroics stunned the five-time African champions and sealed a memorable victory in Rabat, Morocco.
For Cameroon, the defeat is a major setback. The Indomitable Lions, who hold Africa’s record for World Cup appearances with eight tournaments under their belt, will miss out on next year’s expanded 48-team edition.
Despite only six spots separating the teams in the FIFA rankings, the match itself was tight and tense. Heavy rain turned the neutral venue into a test of grit. Cameroon’s André Onana came up big with a smart low save to deny Cédric Bakambu just after the hour mark, while Bryan Mbeumo came close moments later with a shot that skimmed just wide. Karl Etta Eyong also squandered two late opportunities as Cameroon pushed desperately for a breakthrough.
But it was DR Congo who delivered the decisive blow. Mbemba’s late winner not only secured the victory but also moved the Leopards one step closer to only their second World Cup appearance—their first since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.
They will now face Nigeria, who earlier defeated Gabon 4–1 after extra time, setting up a mouthwatering final showdown in the Moroccan capital.
The winner of that clash will advance to a six-team intercontinental play-off in March, where the last two spots for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States will be decided.
