GOMA, Congo (AP) — Congo erupted in joy overnight after a 100th-minute goal against Jamaica sent the African country back to the World Cup for the first time in more than half a century. Across the country,

Qualifying for football's biggest tournament will bring a 'little dose of joy' to a nation where life is challenging for many

Referee Facundo Tello had to be replaced during the Intercontinental FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Congo and Jamaica because of an injury.

Sweden has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will play in Houston during the group stage. Sweden advanced after beating Poland, 3-2, in a FIFA World Cup qualification playoff match. The Blågult will play the Netherlands on June 20 at NRG Stadium at noon.

DR Congo has qualified for the World Cup with a win over Jamaica in a FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff final on March 31.

The United Nations’ acting top envoy for Congo has warned the U.N. Security Council that the conflict in mineral-rich eastern Congo is escalating and expanding.

Six teams played in the inter-confederation playoffs: one from CONMEBOL, one from Oceania, one from Asia, one from Africa, and two from CONCACAF.