World Cup 2026: D.R Congo vs Uzbekistan – Preview, analysis and kick off time

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Uzbekistan are set for a decisive Group K encounter at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with both sides needing victory to keep their hopes of reaching the Round of 32 alive.

The two teams meet on Saturday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta in what effectively becomes a knockout-style fixture, with qualification scenarios hanging in the balance heading into the final round of group matches.

High Stakes in Group K Decider

Group K concludes with both DR Congo and Uzbekistan still in contention, although only a win will give either side any realistic chance of progressing to the knockout stage.

Sebastien Desabre’s DR Congo side are considered favourites heading into the match, but their recent form has raised concerns after going four matches without a win across all competitions.

DR Congo Search for First Victory Momentum

The Leopards began their World Cup campaign with a surprising 1-1 draw against Portugal, raising expectations of a strong run in the tournament.

However, they were unable to maintain that momentum, falling 1-0 to Colombia in their second group match. That result leaves DR Congo needing maximum points in their final fixture to have any chance of advancing.

So far in the tournament, they have scored just once and collected only a single point, meaning improvement in the final third will be crucial if they are to progress.

Uzbekistan Face Uphill Battle in First World Cup Appearance

Uzbekistan’s debut World Cup campaign has proven difficult, with heavy defeats against Colombia and Portugal leaving them bottom of the group.

They suffered a 3-1 loss to Colombia before a 5-0 defeat against Portugal, leaving them with a significant goal difference deficit heading into the final match.

Fabio Cannavaro’s side now require a large-margin victory combined with other results going in their favour, making qualification an unlikely scenario.

A further concern is their recent form, with Uzbekistan losing each of their last four matches in all competitions and struggling to find consistency at this level.

Form Guide and Key Trends

DR Congo have shown mixed form across their recent fixtures, while Uzbekistan have struggled defensively throughout the tournament, conceding heavily in both group games.

Uzbekistan’s discipline has been relatively stable, but their lack of attacking output has limited their chances of staying competitive in matches.

Players to Watch

Arthur Masuaku remains a key creative outlet for DR Congo, with all of his international assists coming before half-time, including a crucial contribution in their opener against Portugal.

For Uzbekistan, Azizjon Ganiev will be one to watch from midfield, with his long-range ability offering one of their few attacking threats despite a lack of goals so far in the tournament.

Team News and Expected Lineups

Both teams head into the match with no reported injury concerns, allowing managers to select from full squads.

DR Congo are expected to line up with Lionel Mpasi in goal, supported by a back line of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, and Arthur Masuaku. The midfield is likely to feature Noah Mukau, Moutoussamy, and Samuel Kayembe, while the attack is expected to include Theo Bongonda, Cédric Bakambu, and Yoane Wissa.

Uzbekistan are expected to start with Utkir Yusupov in goal, with a defensive trio of Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustamjon Ashurmatov, and Alisher Abdullayev. The midfield and attack are expected to include Azizbek Karimov, Otabek Shukurov, Odil Khamrobekov, Khusanov Nasrullaev, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Oston Urunov, and Eldor Shomurodov.

Match Details

The Group K clash between DR Congo and Uzbekistan will take place on Saturday, June 27, with kickoff scheduled for 23:30 GMT at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.