Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Wed 1 April 2026 10:15, UK

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Yoane Wissa played his part in history away from Newcastle United on Tuesday as DR Congo beat Jamaica 1-0 to qualify for the World Cup.

Axel Tuanzebe’s goal in the 100th minute means that the Central African country will feature at this summer’s tournament for the first time since 1974, when they previously competed at Zaire.

Sebastian Desabre’s team has plenty of Premier League quality, with the likes of Wissa, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Noah Sadiki undoubtedly the standouts.

The Newcastle striker has struggled for form since joining the Magpies, however, scoring just three goals across all competitions this season.

However, Eddie Howe will hope Tuesday’s success will be a boost to Wissa and a moment that may well improve his Newcastle form.

Yoane Wissa impresses vs Jamaica

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider last month that Howe is concerned by Wissa, who has just one Premier League goal since joining Newcastle.

The 29-year-old scored 19 for Brentford last season, and despite suffering significant injury issues this season, has failed to live up to the £55million the Magpies paid.

His performance on Tuesday will provide some hope that a capable player is still in there, however.

Wissa did not score, but created a chance, took shots, and was a constant threat to the Jamaican back-line.

He attempted a staggering eight dribbles, completing three, and constantly harried and pressed his defenders as well, making several defensive contributions.

The striker would be on the bench by the time he saw the reward for his efforts, but his performance did not go unnoticed.

DR Congo shows Eddie Howe how to use Wissa

When both Wissa and Nick Woltemade arrived at St James’ Park, Newcastle fans expected, at least once, to see them starting together.

But even after dropping the German into a deeper position, Howe refuses to start both strikers, instead opting for Anthony Gordon through the middle.

Interestingly, DR Congo set up on Tuesday with Wissa situated behind Cedric Bakambu, playing as a secondary striker.

The 29-year-old is familiar in a two, having played alongside Bryan Mbeumo last season, and proved against Jamaica, again, that he could do it for Newcastle.

Whether Howe was paying attention remains to be seen. What is clear is that his current Newcastle set-up is not working, and it will only be so long before something different is required.