Democratic Republic of Congo vs Jamaica: a Clash of Even Strength

The first matchup sees Democratic Republic of Congo face Jamaica. On paper, it is a very even contest. The Congolese come in great form: they have only recorded one loss in their last ten matches. In the Africa Cup of Nations, they went undefeated in the group stage, with their only defeat coming in extra time against Algeria.

It is a balanced team, with Theo Bongonda, from Spartak Moscow, as one of its main stars. Their defense is solid—in the AFCON they only conceded one goal—and they usually control possession to create quick transitions using their speed. However, finishing remains their weak point, as was evident against Algeria, where they missed several opportunities. As they say: the goals you don’t score, get scored against you.

Jamaica, on the other hand, arrives with three consecutive victories, including the one over New Caledonia in the playoff semifinals. However, they also struggle with lack of finishing. They won 1-0 against Grenada and 2-0 against Martinique, but in both games, they created few clear chances.

The team’s star player is Leon Bailey, from Aston Villa, who leads the attack. The midfield is the strongest area for the Reggae Boyz, with a back four aiming to build the game from the middle. Additionally, the defense has improved, having conceded only one goal in six matches, which speaks well of the Caribbean side’s organization. In terms of rhythm, Jamaica seems to arrive in better shape, but their lack of goals could be decisive against a Congolese defense that looks like a wall.

Iraq vs Bolivia: La Verde Holds the Edge

The other series is a real toss-up. Iraq faces Bolivia, with both teams aiming to return to the World Cup after years of absence.

Iraq does not arrive in their best form. They haven’t played since December 2025 and carry two consecutive defeats against Algeria and Jordan. They are an inconsistent team: they score but also concede. In the Arab Cup, they scored four goals and conceded three, but in their last two matches, they failed to score.

Bolivia, on the other hand, is in better form. They come with two consecutive wins, including a comeback against New Caledonia in the playoffs. Previously, they defeated Trinidad and Tobago 3-0 and Brazil 1-0 in La Paz, where altitude is often a decisive factor. Additionally, they beat Jordan 1-0 in Istanbul with a last-minute goal, a match that serves as a reference for what they could face against Iraq, a team with similar characteristics.

La Verde counts on Miguelito in top form, but their main problem is defensively: they make frequent mistakes and allow many chances. In a recent streak against Russia, Korea, Japan, and Peru, they conceded 10 goals and failed to score.

In theory, Bolivia arrives with more match rhythm, while Iraq has been inactive for months. In this series, the edge seems to tilt toward the South American side.

The last two World Cup spots are at stake. Who will claim them?

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