Chancel Mbemba’s stoppage time goal was all DR Congo needed to end Cameroon’s hopes of featuring in the 2026 World Cup.
The 1-0 win will now see DR Congo comes up against Nigeria in the final of African play-offs for the 2026 Fifa World Cup after the latter beat Gabon 4-1 in the other semi finals played earlier.
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Mbemba captain ghosted away from his marker to convert Brian Cipenga’s deep corner in the first minute of stoppage time and upset the five-time continental champions. The Indomitable Lions hold the African record for the most appearances at the World Cup, with eight overall, but will be missing from the expanded 48-team tournament next year.
With just six places separating the sides in the world rankings, the semi-final tie proved to be a cagey affair as heavy rain made conditions difficult in neutral Rabat.
Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana pulled off a fine low save to deny Cedric Bakambu on the hour mark, and five minutes later Bryan Mbeumo shot narrowly wide for the Indomitable Lions. Mbeumo’s team-mate Karl Etta Eyong was also unable to convert two late chances before Mbemba’s dramatic intervention.
The winners of the continental play-off final will progress to a six-team intercontinental qualifier, which will be held in March and will determine the final two nations at next year’s World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
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