FIFA World Cup 2026: DR Congo make history with comeback win over Uzbekistan to reach knockout stage
Atlanta, June 28
The Democratic Republic of Congo produced a memorable second-half comeback to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in Atlanta, securing both their first-ever FIFA World Cup match victory and a historic place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 tournament.
Uzbekistan made a bright start and thought they had taken the lead within the opening minute when captain Eldor Shomurodov found the net after just 20 seconds. However, the goal was ruled out for offside following a review.
The setback did little to discourage the White Wolves, and they eventually broke the deadlock in the 10th minute. A misunderstanding between defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka and goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi allowed Shomurodov to pounce, with the striker calmly lifting a superb finish into the far corner from a tight angle.
The Leopards responded positively and believed they had equalised midway through the first half through a stunning long-range strike from Nathanaël Mbuku. However, after a VAR review, referee Felix Zwayer disallowed the goal for a foul in the build-up.
Despite enjoying the majority of possession, DR Congo struggled to turn their control into clear chances before the break, with captain Chancel Mbemba firing a late volley wide.
The African side emerged with greater urgency after halftime. Their persistence finally paid off just before the hour mark when Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov brought down Yoane Wissa inside the penalty area. Wissa stepped up and confidently converted the spot-kick to draw his side level.
Sensing a historic opportunity, DR Congo continued to push forward. Their pressure was rewarded in the 78th minute when substitutes combined brilliantly.
Meschak Elia's effort took a deflection before Fiston Mayele applied a clever touch to guide the ball into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the Congolese supporters inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Any hopes of an Uzbek comeback were extinguished late on when Wissa struck again. The forward unleashed a clinical finish from the edge of the area to complete his brace and seal a famous 3-1 victory.
The final whistle triggered jubilant scenes as DR Congo celebrated a landmark night in the nation's football history.
The win sends the Leopards into the World Cup knockout stage for the first time, where they will face England in the Round of 32. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, exited the tournament after their maiden World Cup appearance, but with valuable experience gained on the global stage.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So happy for DR Congo! First ever win and knockout qualification. Wissa was brilliant with that brace. But also respect to Uzbekistan, they played well in their first World Cup. Both teams made their nations proud today. Yaar, such moments remind us why football is the beautiful game. ❤️
Honest opinion: VAR is killing the flow of the game. Both teams had goals disallowed and it took forever to review. Also, Wan-Bissaka and Mpasi need to communicate better, that first goal was so avoidable. DR Congo deserved it in the end though. Accha game tha.
Incredible comeback! That first half was frustrating for DR Congo but they kept believing. The sub Meschak Elia changed the game. Now they face England in the Round of 32 - that's going to be a massive test. Hope they can spring another surprise! 🦁🌍
As an Indian football fan, seeing nations like DR Congo achieve this gives me hope. If they can do it with limited resources and infrastructure, why can't we? Maybe someday soon we'll be in that World Cup. For now, cheering for African teams in this tournament! 🇮🇳🤝🌍
Great story, but Uzbekistan really should have held on. That offside call in the first minute set a weird tone. Still, DR Congo showed character and Wissa was clinical. Excited to see how they handle England. Football needs more Cinderella stories like this.
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