Following their semifinal advances, Demokratiska Republiken Kongo faces Jamaica tonight in Mexico for one of two remaining 2026 World Cup spots, while Iraq takes on Bolivia early Wednesday. The winners will join 46 other teams at the tournament. All four nations have prior World Cup experience but limited success.
These finals cap the intercontinental playoff path on future World Cup venues in Mexico, offering revival for underdogs. Bolivia has three prior appearances (last 1994), DR Congo one (as Zaire, 1974), Iraq one (1986), and Jamaica one (1998)—all group-stage exits.
DR Congo-Jamaica kicks off at 23:00 Tuesday on Estadio Akron in Zapopan. Iraq-Bolivia follows at 05:00 Wednesday on Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe.
DR Congo (FIFA 48th) are favorites under Sebastian Desabre, anchored by Chancel Mbemba (Lille) and attackers Cedric Bakambu, Yoanne Wissa. Jamaica (70th) relies on Leon Bailey (Aston Villa), Ethan Pinnock (Brentford). Iraq (58th) features Amir Al-Ammari (Cracovia); Bolivia (76th) mostly domestic players from Bolívar.
Unique stories: DR Congo were first sub-Saharan African side (1974, infamously 9-0 loss to Yugoslavia). Iraq eyes return after 40 years; Jamaica a second outing post-1998 Japan win; Bolivia leverages expanded format after South American struggles.
