DR Congo produced one of the finest nights in their football history as they came from behind to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 and reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
Inspired by a brilliant display from Yoane Wissa, the Leopards overturned an early setback in Atlanta to seal third place in Group K. Their reward is a mouthwatering last 32 clash against England, with belief now growing that this fearless side can trouble anyone.
The evening began badly for the African nation. A mix up between Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan Bissaka allowed Uzbekistan captain Eldor Shomurodov to pounce, lifting the ball over the goalkeeper after the defenders hesitated. It was no more than Uzbekistan deserved after a lively opening in which they controlled possession and created the better chances.
DR Congo refused to panic. Nathanael Mbuku thought he had restored parity before his effort was ruled out for a foul in the build up, a decision that only strengthened the Leopards’ resolve rather than breaking their spirit.
The turning point arrived shortly after the restart. Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa was brought down inside the penalty area by Manchester City’s Abdukodir Khusanov. Wissa calmly stepped up and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to level the contest, shifting the momentum completely.
With confidence flowing, DR Congo attacked with greater purpose. Substitute Fiston Mayele completed the comeback when he reacted quickest to a deflected Meschack Elia effort, poking home from close range to spark wild celebrations among the travelling supporters.
Wissa then put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time. The forward collected the ball outside the box before drilling a precise finish into the far corner for his third goal of the tournament and his second of the night.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre praised the mentality of his players after another spirited comeback. “We have to congratulate the players. They were the ones who were extraordinary,” he said. “We’re a team that knows how to respond when we concede a goal. We keep fighting with determination.”
Uzbekistan manager Fabio Cannavaro admitted his side ran out of energy after an impressive first half. “The first half we did an amazing performance,” he said. “I was afraid for the second half because we spent a lot of energy. At this level, if we make small mistakes, you pay too much.”
The victory is another landmark moment for DR Congo and continues the rise of a squad built on resilience and togetherness. England now stand in their path, but after producing their first World Cup win and reaching the knockout rounds, the Leopards will arrive believing another famous upset is possible.
