World Cup 2026: DR Congo 3-1 Uzbekistan Player Ratings

DR Congo reached the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history after coming from behind to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in a dramatic Group K finale at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Two goals from Yoane Wissa and a fine finish from Fiston Mayele completed a memorable turnaround and sealed one of African football’s greatest recent achievements.

Match Report

The Leopards endured a nightmare start when Uzbekistan captain Eldor Shomurodov struck in the 10th minute. The Roma forward finished a flowing move to hand the World Cup debutants an early advantage and silence the Congolese supporters.

Despite the setback, Sebastien Desabre’s men refused to panic. DR Congo controlled possession for long periods and created several opportunities, although Nathanael Mbuku saw an equaliser ruled out following a VAR review early in the second half.

The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 68th minute. Yoane Wissa calmly converted a penalty after a handball inside the area, bringing the Leopards level and completely changing the momentum of the contest. Just ten minutes later, substitute Fiston Mayele finished brilliantly to put DR Congo ahead for the first time.

With Uzbekistan committing bodies forward in stoppage time, Wissa produced the decisive moment. The Newcastle forward cut inside and curled a magnificent effort into the bottom corner to make it 3-1 and confirm DR Congo’s place in the Round of 32, where they will face England.

DR Congo Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Lionel Mpasi-Nzau – 6.2

Could do little about Shomurodov’s opener and was largely untroubled afterward.

Defence

Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 6.9

Solid defensively and composed in possession throughout the evening.

Chancel Mbemba – 7.1

The captain marshalled the backline well and inspired the second-half response.

Axel Tuanzebe – 7.0

Another assured display from the experienced defender.

Arthur Masuaku – 7.0

Provided energy on the left flank before making way late in the match.

Midfield

Noah Sadiki – 7.6

Excellent in central midfield despite receiving a yellow card. Covered enormous ground and linked play effectively.

Samuel Moutoussamy – 7.0

Worked tirelessly and helped DR Congo dominate possession.

Nathanael Mbuku – 6.7

Had a goal disallowed but remained lively throughout his time on the pitch.

Brian Cipenga – 6.5

Showed flashes of quality before being substituted.

Attack

Yoane Wissa – 8.0

The star of the night. Scored twice, including a stunning stoppage-time strike, and carried DR Congo into the knockout rounds.

Cedric Bakambu – 6.0

Worked hard but struggled to influence proceedings before being replaced.

Substitutes

Fiston Mayele – 6.8

Scored the crucial go-ahead goal and changed the game after coming on.

Meschack Elia – 7.0

Provided the assist for Wissa’s second goal and added pace in attack.

Joris Kayembe – 6.7

A composed contribution during the closing stages.

Ngal’ayel Mukau – 6.6

Added fresh legs in midfield.

Theo Bongonda – 6.5

Worked hard after entering the match.

Verdict

Yoane Wissa delivered when his country needed him most, while Noah Sadiki and Chancel Mbemba produced outstanding performances in a historic victory. Fifty-two years after their only previous World Cup appearance, the Leopards are finally through to the knockout rounds and will carry enormous confidence into their showdown with England.