Congo DR produced a memorable second-half comeback to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in Atlanta and secure a historic place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
After falling behind early to Eldor Shomurodov’s opener, the Congolese side responded with determination after the break. A penalty from Yoane Wissa, followed by Fiston Mayele’s composed finish and a second goal from Wissa deep into stoppage time, completed an impressive turnaround that ensured Congo DR advanced as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
The victory sets up a Round of 32 meeting with England in Atlanta on 1 July, while Uzbekistan exit the competition without a point from their three Group K matches.
Uzbekistan Make Bright Start
Having already suffered defeats in their opening two matches, World Cup debutants Uzbekistan began with purpose as they searched for a positive finish to their campaign.
The White Wolves believed they had stunned Congo DR with a goal just 20 seconds after kick-off, only for the effort from Eldor Shomurodov to be ruled out for offside.
The striker was not to be denied for long. In the 10th minute, Shomurodov celebrated a couple of days before his 31st birthday by producing a delicate looping finish from a tight angle to give Uzbekistan a deserved lead. It was also a landmark moment, marking the first time Uzbekistan had led in a World Cup match.
Congo DR thought they had found an immediate response midway through the first half, but Nathanael Mbuku’s well-taken effort was disallowed following a foul earlier in the move.
Momentum Shifts After the Interval
Uzbekistan almost doubled their advantage six minutes into the second half when Shomurodov attempted another delicate finish, but this time his effort landed on the roof of the net.
That proved to be a turning point as Congo DR gradually assumed control of the contest.
Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Yoane Wissa calmly converted from the penalty spot to restore parity and inject fresh belief into his side.
Just 10 minutes later, the momentum swung decisively in Congo DR’s favour. Substitute Meschack Elia saw his shot deflect kindly into the path of fellow substitute Fiston Mayele, who reacted quickest to lift the loose ball over goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov and complete the comeback.
With Uzbekistan pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Congo DR sealed the result in added time. Wissa collected the ball on the edge of the area before producing an excellent finish to score his second goal of the evening and confirm a famous victory.
Historic Achievement for Congo DR
The win sees Congo DR finish third in Group K with four points, behind Colombia and Portugal, but with enough to progress to the knockout phase as one of the competition’s best third-placed teams.
For Uzbekistan, the defeat brings an end to their first World Cup campaign, having lost all three group matches.
Wissa’s outstanding display earned him the Superior Player of the Match award after his decisive brace inspired one of the biggest moments in Congo DR’s football history.
Pride After a Landmark Victory
Speaking after the match, Wissa reflected on what the achievement meant to the players and supporters.
“I’m just one piece of the puzzle. Today was very tough — the weight on our shoulders was hard to bear. There are things we need to fix. But the most important thing is this historic Round of 32. We’re going to savour this moment because it’s been tough. All the guys — the substitutes, those who’ve worn the jersey before, and those who’ll wear it tomorrow — we should be proud. Thank you to all the Congolese people; it’s for moments like these that we do what we do. We did it!”
Head coach Sebastien Desabre praised his players for the resilience they showed after conceding first.
“We have to congratulate the players — they were the ones who were extraordinary. We’re a team that knows how to respond when we concede a goal; we keep fighting with determination. We were a little more offensive today, and I’m glad everyone could see that we’re capable of scoring goals. That’s great. I have to congratulate my coaching staff as well; we’re really proud and happy for all Congolese people.”
Uzbekistan coach Fabio Cannavaro expressed pride in his team’s efforts despite their elimination.
“The first half we did an amazing performance, we prepared the game in this way. I knew we spent a lot of energy, I knew we were running too much, and I was afraid for the second half. I tried to push them at half time but of course at this level if we make small mistakes — what I said against Colombia, against Portugal — you pay too much. Of course this World Cup for us is some experience, I’m proud because even if they suffered they showed what they can do.”
With confidence boosted by a landmark victory, Congo DR now prepare for the biggest knockout match in their World Cup history when they face England for a place in the last 16.
