D-Day for DR Congo: Reggae Boyz hold key to door locked for 52 years

DR Congo have waited 52 years for a chance like this, and now they mustn't let it go. To quote the "King of Rock and Roll", Elvis Presley - "It's now or never".

This iconic hit single was released in 1960, 14 years before DR Congo (then known as Zaire) made their first and only appearance in a FIFA World Cup. The Africans suffered all three defeats by a devastating 0-14 goal difference, while their 9-0 loss to Yugoslavia is the joint-second-largest defeat in WC history. Brazil (3-0) and Scotland (2-0) were more merciful.

DR Congo await as Jamaica stumble into WC playoff final

Still, things have changed significantly since that tournament in West Germany - which no longer exists, as neither does Zaire or Yugoslavia - and the Leopards' time has come again.

Not only do they have a historic chance to return to the World Cup after over half a century, but they are also the favourites in the clash against Jamaica (00.00), the Congolese's final obstacle on their path to North America.

Just by looking at the two squads, it would be clear that the Reggae Boyz have a tough challenge ahead of them. However, the results indicate it, too.

Sebastien Desabre's men played only one warm-up game ahead of the decisive clash in Mexico, beating the minnows Bermuda 2-0. On the other hand, Jamaica faced underdog New Caledonia in the semi-finals of the inter-confederation play-offs and barely beat the Oceanian team 1-0.

Yet, when one game decides, everything is possible. The Reggae Boyz have also never participated in the WC, and this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for them as well.

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The last World Cup ticket will be up for grabs in the match between Iraq and Bolivia (06.00). The Asian team hasn't felt the WC atmosphere since 1986, while the South Americans last featured in 1994. La Verde had previously beaten Suriname in the semis 2-1, while the play-off final will be the one and only clash for Iraq in the tournament.

Hence, it all comes down to this, as both decisive clashes will bring immense joy on one side and unbelievable sorrow on the other. The pressure will undoubtedly be overwhelming, and those who handle it better will prevail.

The epic D-Day is upon us, or, as Elvis would say: Tomorrow will be too late, it's now or never...

2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION

Inter-confederation play-offs

Wednesday

Path 1

00.00: (1.95) DR Congo (3.10) Jamaica (4.70)

Path 2

06.00: (2.70) Iraq (3.00) Bolivia (2.90)

***odds are subject to change***