DR Congo rallies from behind to beat Uzbekistan and set up World Cup last-32 clash with England

Match overview

DR Congo overturned an early deficit to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in their final Group K match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The result, combined with Portugal’s 0-0 draw against Colombia in the group’s other fixture, left DR Congo third but with enough points to advance as one of the best third-placed teams. They progress directly to the round of 32, where England awaits.

Uzbekistan strikes early

Uzbekistan took the lead in the 10th minute through Eldor Shomurodov. A swift counter-attack ended with the forward lifting a delicate lob over the goalkeeper. DR Congo responded immediately, but Nathanael Mbuku’s finish in the 17th minute was disallowed for a foul. The African side dominated possession and territory yet could not register a shot on target before half-time. Uzbekistan’s defensive shape, organised by coach Fabio Cannavaro, held firm.

Second-half turnaround

After the interval DR Congo increased the tempo and pinned Uzbekistan back. The breakthrough came in the 68th minute when referee Felix Zwayer awarded a penalty for a foul on Yoane Wissa. Wissa converted the spot-kick to level the score. Ten minutes later, Meschack Elia’s effort was blocked, but Fiston Mayele pounced on the rebound and finished calmly in a one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Wissa added his second in stoppage time with a powerful strike, closing the scoring at 3-1.

Group K standings

Playing concurrently, Portugal and Colombia drew 0-0. Colombia topped Group K, Portugal finished second, and both qualified automatically for the last 32. DR Congo’s three points from the win were enough to claim third place and secure passage as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, without needing to await other results.

Next opponent

With the victory, DR Congo earned a round-of-32 meeting with England. The fixture continues a tournament in which the Leopards, coached by Sebastien Desabre, have made a strong impression by reaching the knockout stage.