DR Congo defeats Uzbekistan 3-1 to reach World Cup 2026 round of 16

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K match, DR Congo overcame Uzbekistan 3-1 to secure a spot in the round of 16. Uzbekistan opened the scoring through Shomurodov, who netted a striking goal early in the game. DR Congo responded quickly, with Mbuku leveling the score before a VAR review cancelled a later goal. The decisive moments came after the half‑hour mark when Wissa converted a penalty to give Congo a 2-1 lead, and later added a third goal, sealing the victory. The win positions DR Congo to face England in the next knockout round.

Key contributors included Shomurodov for Uzbekistan and Wissa, a Newcastle forward, who scored twice for Congo, including the crucial penalty. The match highlighted Congo's aggressive play after trailing and their clinical finishing in the latter stages.