Axel Tuanzebe: Hero of DR Congo's Historic World Cup Victory

Axel Tuanzebe, former England under-21 international, scored the decisive goal against Jamaica to secure the Democratic Republic of Congo's first World Cup spot since 1974. Despite beginning his career in England, Tuanzebe switched allegiance to Congo, making a significant impact in his debut for the national team.

Axel Tuanzebe, once a promising talent in England's youth setup, has now become a national hero in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His extra-time goal against Jamaica, during the inter-confederation playoff, secured Congo's return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1974.

Tuanzebe, who joined Manchester United at a young age, was released in 2023 and subsequently joined Ipswich Town. Though initially involved in England's junior teams, he committed to the DR Congo team just before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, answering the call from his ancestral nation.

With his family in attendance at the Estadio Guadalajara, Tuanzebe expressed immense pride in representing Congo. Coach Sebastien Desabre lauded the team for their resilience and strong camaraderie, which played a crucial role in their successful qualification.

(With inputs from agencies.)