DR Congo secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their World Cup 2026 group stage encounter on Sunday, with a late strike from Cedric Bakambu sealing the win at the Al Janoub Stadium. The result keeps DR Congo's hopes of advancing to the knockout stages alive, while Uzbekistan faces an uphill battle after two consecutive defeats.
First Half: Cautious Start and Early Goal
The match began cautiously, with both teams feeling each other out in the hot and humid conditions. DR Congo dominated possession early on, but Uzbekistan's compact defense limited clear-cut chances. The breakthrough came in the 34th minute when DR Congo's captain, Chancel Mbemba, rose highest to meet a corner kick, powering a header past Uzbekistan goalkeeper Eldorbek Suyunov. The goal sparked celebrations among the Congolese fans, who had traveled in numbers to support their team.
Uzbekistan responded well, pushing forward in search of an equalizer. Their best chance of the half came from a free kick that was saved by DR Congo's goalkeeper, Joël Kiassumbua. The first half ended with DR Congo leading 1-0, but Uzbekistan had shown they were capable of causing problems.
Second Half: Uzbekistan Equalizer and Dramatic Finish
The second half saw Uzbekistan increase the pressure, and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute. Substitute striker Eldor Shomurodov latched onto a through ball from Odiljon Hamrobekov, slotting past Kiassumbua to level the score. The goal gave Uzbekistan renewed energy, and they nearly took the lead minutes later when a shot from Jaloliddin Masharipov hit the crossbar.
As the match seemed destined for a draw, DR Congo mounted a late surge. In the 83rd minute, a quick counter-attack saw substitute Theo Bongonda release Bakambu, who calmly finished past Suyunov to restore DR Congo's lead. The goal sparked wild celebrations on the DR Congo bench and among their supporters. Uzbekistan pushed for another equalizer but could not find a way through a resolute Congolese defense, which held firm to secure the victory.
Impact and Analysis
The win moves DR Congo to three points in Group H, level with second-placed Portugal, who play later on Sunday. Uzbekistan remains bottom of the group with zero points and faces an uphill battle to qualify. According to DR Congo coach Héctor Cúper, "The players showed great character after conceding. We knew it would be tough, but we believed we could win. This result gives us a chance to advance, and we will fight for it in our final group match."
Uzbekistan coach Srečko Katanec expressed disappointment but praised his team's effort: "We gave everything, but small mistakes cost us. We still have a chance if we win our last game, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal." The match saw a total of 22 shots, with 8 on target, reflecting the open nature of the game. DR Congo's victory was built on defensive resilience and effective counter-attacks, while Uzbekistan will rue their missed opportunities.
What's Next?
DR Congo will face Portugal in their final group match on Wednesday, needing at least a draw to have a strong chance of advancing. Uzbekistan must beat Portugal and hope other results go their way to progress. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to Group H.
