World Cup 2026: DR Congo makes history for the first time

This is only the second time the African representative has appeared at the world's greatest football festival, after a 52-year absence since the 1974 World Cup. Two goals from Yoane Wissa and a strike from Fiston Mayele in the second half helped DR Congo complete an impressive comeback, making them one of the tournament's surprises as they advanced to the round of 16 alongside Cape Verde.

Uzbekistan got off to a good start when Eldor Shomurodov opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a delicate lob, putting DR Congo's hopes of advancing early under threat. However, the players of coach Sébastien Desabre, who had surprised by drawing 1-1 with Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in their first match, showed great determination in the second half.

The turning point came in the 68th minute when Yoane Wissa was fouled by Abdukodir Khusanov inside the penalty area, earning a penalty for DR Congo. Wissa himself successfully converted the spot kick, deceiving goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov to make it 1-1.

Just 10 minutes later, Fiston Mayele put DR Congo ahead 2-1 with a close-range finish after Meschack Elia's shot deflected.

In stoppage time, Wissa completed his brace with a curling shot into the far corner, sealing a 3-1 victory for DR Congo.

This historic victory helped DR Congo advance past the World Cup group stage for the first time, ending a 52-year wait since their debut in 1974 under the name Zaire.