Zaire (now called the Democratic Republic of Congo) was the first black African nation to play in a World Cup finals. The country played in the FIFA World Cup as Zaire in 1974, and returned for the first time in 52 years as DR Congo in 2026, when they reached the Round of 32.

1974

Zaire didn't make it out of Group 2 at the 1974 FIFA World Cup, losing all three matches, scoring no goals and conceding 14.

2026

DR Congo qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their first appearance at the finals in 52 years since playing as Zaire in 1974. They were drawn into Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

After a 1–1 draw with Portugal and a narrow 1–0 loss to Colombia, they beat debutants Uzbekistan 3–1 to finish third on 4 points and advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams. The team reached the knockout stage for the first time in the nation's history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the Round of 32 in Atlanta, they stunned England with a 7th-minute Brian Cipenga goal and led until late, but two Harry Kane goals in the final 15 minutes saw them lose 1–2.

Date Result Opponent
17 June 1–1 Portugal
23 June 0–1 Colombia
27 June 3–1 Uzbekistan
1 July 1–2 England (Round of 32)

Trivia

  • At the 1974 World Cup, Zaire suffered one of the heaviest World Cup defeats ever, losing 9-0 to Yugoslavia 
  • Zaire was the first country from sub-Saharan Africa to qualify for a World Cup finals
  • When Zaire qualified for the 1974 finals, the Zairian president promised each player a house, a car and free holidays. All these offers were withdrawn when Zaire lost all three matches, scored no goals and conceded 14.
  • DR Congo's 3–1 win over Uzbekistan in 2026 was the country's first ever victory at a World Cup finals, coming 52 years after their debut.