DR Congo booked their place in the World Cup round of 32 for the first time in their history after staging a remarkable comeback to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 and set up a blockbuster clash with England.
Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa produced a match-winning display, scoring twice as the Leopards overturned a first-half deficit to secure third place in Group K and advance as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
Uzbekistan made a brighter start and took the lead through captain Eldor Shomurodov after a costly defensive mix-up between Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The veteran striker capitalised on the hesitation, delicately lifting his finish over the advancing goalkeeper.
The Central Asian side dominated much of the opening half, displaying attacking confidence and looking capable of extending their advantage. However, DR Congo remained dangerous on the counterattack, with Nathanael Mbuku going close after the Africans had a goal ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
Knowing only victory would guarantee progression, DR Congo emerged after the interval with greater urgency and determination.
Their breakthrough arrived when Wissa was brought down inside the penalty area by Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov. The Newcastle forward calmly converted the resulting spot-kick to level the contest and shift the momentum firmly in DR Congo’s favour.
The Leopards completed the turnaround midway through the second half as Fiston Mayele reacted quickest to a deflected effort from Meschack Elia, stabbing the ball past goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov from close range.
As Uzbekistan pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Wissa delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time. Collecting possession on the edge of the area, the forward drilled a superb finish into the far corner to seal a famous victory.
The result sends DR Congo into the knockout stage for the first time and sets up a highly anticipated round-of-32 encounter against England in Atlanta.
For Wissa, who has been at the heart of DR Congo’s attacking threat throughout the tournament, this performance may well be remembered as the night he led his country into World Cup history.
