DR Congo qualify for the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history after beating Uzbekistan 3-1 in their final group match in Atlanta. Uzbekistan take the lead early through Eldor Shomurodov’s lob over DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. Yoane Wissa equalises for DR Congo from the penalty spot, before Fiston Mayele puts DR Congo ahead with a goal that sparks celebrations from a largely Congolese crowd. Wissa then completes the comeback with a further strike in stoppage time, giving DR Congo their first-ever World Cup victory and their place in the last 32.
The win sends DR Congo to face England in the knockout round. Multiple reports note the significance of the result for the team and its supporters, including the wider context of DR Congo’s long absence from World Cup finals and the role football is playing in national unity. DR Congo’s progress comes after earlier group matches including a draw with Portugal and a narrow defeat by Colombia, leaving Wissa and teammates needing a win to secure advancement.
