Congo DR reaches World Cup 2026 knockout as Croatia and England win

The Democratic Republic of Congo stunned Uzbekistan 3‑1 in Miami, overturning an early deficit to claim its first ever World Cup 2026 round‑of‑32 spot. Goals came from a penalty by Yvan Wissa, a second strike by Veston Mailli and a stoppage‑time finish by Wissa.

In the same group, Colombia secured first place ahead of Portugal after a 0‑0 draw, while Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo faced criticism for the team’s inability to break down the Colombian defence.

Croatia progressed with a 2‑1 victory over Ghana in Philadelphia. Petar Sutic opened the scoring, and Nikola Flecic added the winner after Ghana’s Derek Lokasen pulled one back.

England topped its group by beating Panama 2‑0, with goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, ensuring the Three Lions advance to the knockout stage.