Yoane Wissa brace sends DR Congo into World Cup Round of 32

DR Congo secured a landmark moment in the nation's football history after fighting back to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 and qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time.

A brilliant second-half display inspired by Premier League forward Yoane Wissa transformed the contest after the Leopards had fallen behind early, setting up a Round of 32 meeting with England.

The victory also erased decades of painful World Cup memories dating back to the country's only previous appearance in 1974, when they competed as Zaire.

Uzbekistan strike first

Uzbekistan made the perfect start inside ten minutes. Captain Eldor Shomurodov produced a composed chipped finish to give the Asian side an early advantage and place DR Congo under immediate pressure.

The goal left Sébastien Desabre's side needing a dramatic turnaround to keep their World Cup dream alive. Despite enjoying periods of possession, Congo struggled to create clear opportunities before halftime as Uzbekistan looked comfortable protecting their lead.

Wissa sparks second-half revival

Everything changed after the interval. With just over 20 minutes remaining, Yoane Wissa won a penalty after being fouled inside the area by defender Abdukodir Khusanov.

The Brentford forward confidently converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov the wrong way to level the match. The equaliser completely shifted the momentum.

Ten minutes later, substitute Fiston Mayele completed the turnaround with a clever near-post finish that sparked wild celebrations among players and coaching staff.

Wissa seals historic qualification

As Uzbekistan pushed forward searching for an equaliser, DR Congo struck once more in stoppage time. Wissa curled a composed finish into the bottom corner to secure his second goal of the evening and confirm one of the biggest victories in Congolese football history.

The final whistle was followed by emotional celebrations from players, coaches and supporters, who witnessed the nation reach the knockout stage for the first time.

A new chapter after 52 years

The result represents a remarkable turnaround for DR Congo. Their previous and only World Cup appearance came in 1974 under the name Zaire, when they lost all three group matches, including a record 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia.

This generation has now written an entirely different story. Holding Portugal earlier in the tournament before producing this comeback victory demonstrated the growth of the squad under coach Sébastien Desabre.

Who will DR Congo play in the Round of 32?

The historic victory sends DR Congo into the Round of 32, where they will face Group L winners England. Confidence within the squad is high after becoming one of several African nations to reach the knockout phase in the expanded 48-team tournament.

With attacking players such as Wissa and Mayele finding form at the perfect time, the Leopards will believe they can continue their impressive World Cup journey.

Uzbekistan exit on debut

Uzbekistan's first FIFA World Cup campaign ends at the group stage after suffering three consecutive defeats. Although their tournament concludes without progression, the experience is expected to provide a valuable foundation as the nation continues its rapid football development.

Coach Fabio Cannavaro expressed hope that the lessons learned on the world stage would help Uzbekistan become stronger in future international competitions.

Match Summary

DR Congo 3-1 Uzbekistan

Goals:

• Eldor Shomurodov (10') – Uzbekistan
• Yoane Wissa (68' pen)
• Fiston Mayele (78')
• Yoane Wissa (90+)

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