Congo DR Script Historic Comeback Against Uzbekistan, Set Up England Clash in World Cup Knockouts

Atlanta, June 2026 : Congo DR produced one of the most memorable performances of the FIFA World Cup 2026, coming from behind to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 and secure a historic place in the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history.

Making their first World Cup appearance in 52 years, Congo DR overturned an early deficit with a superb second-half display, powered by a brace from Yoane Wissa and a crucial strike from substitute Fiston Mayele. The victory ensured they progressed as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams from Group K and booked a Round of 32 clash against England in Atlanta on July 1.

The result marked Congo DR’s first-ever victory at a FIFA World Cup. Their only previous appearance came in 1974, when the country competed as Zaire and became the first nation from sub-Saharan Africa to qualify for the global tournament. Their latest triumph represents a remarkable turnaround and a landmark achievement for Congolese football.

Earlier in the day, Colombia and Portugal played out a goalless draw in Miami, leaving the door open for Congo DR to qualify with a win. They seized the opportunity in dramatic fashion despite suffering an early setback.

Uzbekistan, already eliminated after consecutive defeats, began brightly and appeared determined to leave the tournament with a positive result. Eldor Shomurodov found the net within 20 seconds, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

The experienced striker, however, was not to be denied. In the 10th minute, Shomurodov produced a composed finish from a tight angle, delicately lifting the ball into the net to hand Uzbekistan a deserved lead and celebrate his upcoming 31st birthday in style.

Congo DR responded positively and thought they had equalised in the 17th minute through Nathanael Mbuku, only for the effort to be disallowed after a foul was detected during the build-up. The African side continued searching for a breakthrough but went into the interval trailing by a goal.

Soon after the restart, Uzbekistan nearly doubled their advantage when Shomurodov attempted another clever finish, but his effort landed on the roof of the net, providing Congo DR with a crucial reprieve.

As the second half progressed, Congo DR steadily took control of possession and increased the pressure on the Uzbek defence. Their persistence was rewarded in the 68th minute when Yoane Wissa calmly converted a penalty to restore parity and breathe new life into his side’s qualification hopes.

The momentum had completely shifted, and just ten minutes later Congo DR completed the turnaround. Substitute Meschack Elia’s shot was deflected into the path of fellow substitute Fiston Mayele, who reacted quickly to delicately lift the loose ball over goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov and put his side ahead.

Deep into stoppage time, Wissa sealed both the victory and qualification with an outstanding strike from the edge of the penalty area, completing his brace and sparking jubilant celebrations among the Congolese players and supporters.

The 3-1 victory secured Congo DR’s place in the Round of 32, where they will face England in Atlanta on July 1, with hopes of extending their dream run at the FIFA World Cup 2026.