Expert opinion: New Caledonia or Jamaica, which opponent would be more manageable for DR Congo? | OneFootball

On paper, Jamaica are clear favorites over New Caledonia in the semi-final of the intercontinental play-offs for the 2026 World Cup. If we look at the FIFA rankings, Jamaica sits around 70th place, while New Caledonia is much further down. This gap clearly shows the Jamaicans' advantage.Looking at the squads, Jamaica boasts a quality group, with several players competing in England, whether in the Premier League or the Championship. That brings experience and a certain familiarity with big occasions. For these reasons, I see Jamaica advancing from this round.That said, I wouldn’t rule out a surprise from New Caledonia. In football, it’s not about what’s on paper, it’s about what happens on the pitch. This team won’t come as mere underdogs—they’ll give it everything. Anything is possible, even if I estimate Jamaica’s chances at around 60%.As for DR Congo, we don’t really have a preference for our opponent. Our squad is made up of competitors. In recent months, the team has shown great things, including victories over Cameroon and Nigeria, which has boosted the group’s confidence.It’s been over 50 years since DR Congo last featured at a World Cup. Now, the entire country faces a major opportunity. We’ve stumbled before, notably against Tunisia, Morocco, and Senegal.This time, it’s a chance we must seize. Even if the match will be played far from home, we have the quality needed to make the difference.No matter the opponent, DR Congo is ready. Whether it’s New Caledonia or Jamaica, the objective is clear: to qualify for the World Cup.We absolutely must not underestimate the opponent. Qualification will require tough, intense, and suspenseful matches.But we’re ready to rise to this challenge. The players understand what’s at stake and are working hard to achieve this goal.We are confident. This time could be the one. Despite the early exit from the last AFCON, there is hope. The squad is strong and believes in its chances. After 52 years of waiting, DR Congo wants to return to the World Cup and will do everything to make it happen.

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