Omanghana
DR Congo produced a sensational second-half comeback to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 at Atlanta Stadium, securing a historic place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32. The victory not only marked the Leopards’ first-ever FIFA World Cup win but also ensured their progression to the knockout stage after a memorable display of resilience and determination.
Uzbekistan looked in control for much of the opening half after captain Eldor Shomurodov handed his side an early advantage in the 10th minute. The experienced forward brilliantly lifted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper with a composed finish, giving the Central Asian nation a deserved lead.
DR Congo thought they had restored parity midway through the first half when Nathanaël Mbuku found the back of the net. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was ruled out due to a foul in the buildup, leaving the Congolese frustrated as Uzbekistan carried a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
The momentum shifted dramatically after the restart as DR Congo dominated possession and repeatedly tested the Uzbek defense. Their persistence finally paid off in the 68th minute when Yoane Wissa won a penalty following a clumsy challenge inside the area. The Brentford forward calmly converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the contest at 1-1.
Buoyed by the equalizer, the Leopards continued to press forward in search of a winner. Their breakthrough arrived in the 78th minute when substitute Fiston Mayele reacted quickest to a deflected effort from Meschack Elia, cleverly flicking the ball past the goalkeeper to complete the turnaround and put DR Congo ahead for the first time.
As Uzbekistan pushed numbers forward in search of a late equalizer, DR Congo struck once more deep into stoppage time. Wissa collected the ball on the edge of the area before curling a superb finish into the bottom corner in the 91st minute, sealing a commanding 3-1 victory and capping a brilliant individual performance with his second goal of the night.
The landmark victory sends DR Congo into the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in the nation’s history, while Uzbekistan’s World Cup campaign comes to a heartbreaking end after surrendering their first-half lead. The Congolese will now look to build on their historic achievement as they prepare for the Round of 32.
Source: Omanghana
