Democratic Republic of Congo secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan in their final group match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, clinching a spot in the knockout stage. The win propelled DR Congo into the round of 16, while Uzbekistan, making their first World Cup appearance, were eliminated after being outscored 11-2 in group play.
Uzbekistan takes early lead
Uzbekistan struck first in the 10th minute when Eldor Shomurodov found the net, giving his side an early advantage. The goal came from a well-worked move that exposed gaps in the DR Congo defense. Shomurodov's strike was his first of the tournament and briefly raised hopes of an upset for the Central Asian side.
Despite the early setback, DR Congo controlled possession and created several chances before halftime but failed to convert, leaving them trailing 1-0 at the break.
Second-half surge powers DR Congo to victory
DR Congo emerged with renewed urgency in the second half, pressing high and forcing errors from Uzbekistan. The equalizer arrived in the 58th minute when a cross from the right flank was met by a powerful header that beat the Uzbek goalkeeper. The goal energized the Congolese side, who continued to push forward.
The winning goal came in the 73rd minute after a swift counter-attack. A long ball over the top caught the Uzbek defense off guard, allowing DR Congo's striker to slot home from close range. Uzbekistan struggled to respond, managing only one shot on target in the final 20 minutes.
Statistical highlights and impact
According to match statistics, DR Congo recorded 15 shots to Uzbekistan's 7, with 6 on target compared to 3. The victory marked DR Congo's first World Cup knockout stage qualification since 1974. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, finished their debut campaign with three losses, scoring 2 goals and conceding 11.
“We showed great character to come back after conceding early. The team believed in themselves, and now we are in the knockout stage,” said DR Congo's captain after the match, as quoted by Reuters.
The result confirms DR Congo's place in the round of 16, where they will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent. Uzbekistan's elimination ends a historic but challenging first World Cup appearance.
