Eldor Shomurodov #14 of Uzbekistan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match between Congo DR and Uzbekistan at Atlanta Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
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Getty Images via AFP
Democratic Republic of Congo’s win against already-eliminated Uzbekistan in Atlanta, means that the team will most probably secure qualification for the knockout stages as at least one of the best third-placed sides.
DR Congo changed to a more attacking formation in their last World Cup Group K clash and advance to the Round of 32. It has fielded five defenders in their previous two matches against Portugal and Colombia but Steve Kapuadi sits out this time to allow an extra attacker in Brian Cipenga.
Plucky DR Congo holds listless Portugal to 1-1 draw
After losing 5-0 to Portugal in their last match, Uzbekistan made four changes as they look to win their first points. Coach Fabio Cannavaro’s side lost to Colombia and Portugal, conceding eight goals, and even a win against the Congolese may not be enough to earn one of the eight best third-placed spots in the round of 32.