By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
The Jamaica national football team moved to within one match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after edging past New Caledonia national football team 1–0 in a tense intercontinental playoff clash.
A disciplined and composed performance ensured Jamaica avoided a potential upset, sealing progression to the final qualifying round where they will face the DR Congo national football team for a place at football’s biggest stage.
In a match where chances were limited, Jamaica made their moment count, scoring the decisive goal and then managing the game effectively to see out the victory.
New Caledonia, despite their underdog status, remained competitive throughout but were unable to find a breakthrough against a well-organised Jamaican defence.
The fixture also featured the international debut of Angelo Fulgini, who represented New Caledonia. However, the occasion did not produce the fairytale ending, as Jamaica’s experience ultimately proved decisive.
Attention now turns to the final playoff encounter, where Jamaica will meet DR Congo in a winner-takes-all showdown. Victory in that match will confirm qualification for the World Cup, while defeat will end the journey at the final hurdle.
The stakes are further heightened by what lies ahead — the playoff winner will be drawn into a challenging Group K alongside Portugal national football team, Colombia national football team, and Uzbekistan national football team.