Congo DR booked their place in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time since appearing as Zaire in 1974 after recovering from an early deficit to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1. The victory lifted them to four points in Group K, enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
Uzbekistan made the brighter start and moved ahead after only 10 minutes when captain Eldor Shomurodov produced an excellent chipped finish. However, the advantage disappeared during the second half as Congo DR mounted an impressive comeback to keep their World Cup campaign alive.
Wissa inspires memorable victory
Yoane Wissa proved to be the key figure by scoring twice during the closing stages. After being brought down inside the penalty area by Abdukodir Khusanov in the 68th minute, the forward calmly converted the resulting spot kick to bring his side level.
Deep into stoppage time, Wissa struck again after reacting quickest to a loose ball that followed Fiston Mayele’s attempt. He shifted possession onto his right foot before finding the corner of the net to complete the scoring.
The two goals capped an outstanding individual display despite earlier missed opportunities in the 29th and 50th minutes. His brace helped Congo DR move beyond the group stage for the first time, leaving behind memories of their 1974 World Cup exit.
Mayele changes the match
Fiston Mayele entered the game in the 51st minute in place of Cedric Bakambu and immediately added greater attacking threat. His introduction proved decisive as he scored the goal that gave Congo DR the lead for the first time.
The striker found the net in the 78th minute by stretching to divert Meschack Elia’s deflected shot beyond goalkeeper Abduvokhid Nematov. He also remained dangerous throughout the remainder of the match, creating chances in the 60th, 75th, and 89th minutes.
Mayele also played an important role in the third goal, with his effort creating the rebound that Wissa converted. His energetic display rewarded coach Sebastien Desabre’s tactical adjustment after the break.
Uzbekistan’s hopes disappear
Abdukodir Khusanov endured a difficult evening that turned against his team in the second half. Already carrying a yellow card received in the 43rd minute for a late challenge on Wissa, the defender conceded the penalty that allowed Congo DR to draw level after fouling the same player inside the area.
Although Khusanov contributed with several clearances and blocks during sustained pressure, that mistake proved decisive. Congo DR scored three unanswered goals after the equaliser, while Uzbekistan failed to respond and finished their first World Cup campaign without collecting a single point from three group matches.