DR Congo Beat Uzbekistan 3-1 to Reach World Cup Knockouts for First Time; South Korea Eliminated

DR Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 in the final group match of Group K at the 2026 World Cup, securing their first-ever knockout stage appearance. Uzbekistan finished bottom, and South Korea missed out on the round of 16 as a result.

On June 27, 2026, DR Congo made history by defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 in the final group stage match of Group K at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta. With this victory, DR Congo advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in their history, while Uzbekistan were eliminated at the bottom of the group. The result also had a significant impact on Asian teams, as South Korea were knocked out of the tournament. Uzbekistan started the match strongly, taking the lead in the 15th minute through a solo goal from Eldor Shomurodov, who latched onto a through ball and slotted past the goalkeeper. DR Congo responded well, controlling possession and creating chances. In the 32nd minute, a long pass from midfielder Mbenza found Yoane Wissa, who cut inside and fired a low shot into the far corner to level the score at 1-1. The second half saw DR Congo take control. In the 58th minute, Wissa scored his second goal of the match with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, giving DR Congo a 2-1 lead. Uzbekistan pushed for an equalizer but were denied by solid defending and goalkeeper Matampi's saves. In the 83rd minute, DR Congo sealed the win on the counter-attack, with substitute Bakambu tapping into an empty net to make it 3-1. The victory secured DR Congo's place in the round of 16 as group runners-up, sparking wild celebrations among players and fans. Coach Desabre said, "This is a proud moment for the whole nation. We have shown the strength of African football." The result also had a major impact on the Asian qualification race. With Uzbekistan finishing on just one point, South Korea, who had three points but a poor goal difference, dropped out of the top eight third-placed teams and were eliminated from the tournament. South Korea became the first Asian team to be knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, marking their second consecutive group-stage exit. DR Congo's journey to the knockout stage was hard-fought. They lost 2-0 to Portugal in their opening match, drew 1-1 with Mexico, and needed a win in the final game. Under pressure, they showed resilience and determination. Wissa, named Man of the Match, said, "We never gave up. Today belongs to all Congolese people." In the other Group K match, Portugal defeated Mexico 2-0 to top the group. DR Congo will face the Group H winners in the round of 16, likely Brazil or Switzerland. For this African debutant, every match is a chance to make history.

DR Congo Beat Uzbekistan 3-1 to Reach World Cup Knockouts for First Time; South Korea Eliminated

Related Matches