The Democratic Republic of Congo made history on Sunday by qualifying for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time after a thrilling 3-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan.
The Congolese side overturned a first-half deficit with a spirited second-half display, as Yoane Wissa scored twice to secure a place in the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.
DR Congo will now face Group L winners England in the knockout stage.
The achievement marks a remarkable chapter in the country’s football history. The Central African nation, which has been affected by years of conflict, only booked its place at the expanded 2026 World Cup through the inter-confederation play-offs, defeating Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in Mexico to end a 52-year absence from the global tournament.
Their only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974, when the country competed as Zaire. They became the first Sub-Saharan African nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup but exited the competition without scoring, losing to Scotland, Brazil and Yugoslavia.
This time, under the guidance of head coach Sebastien Desabre, DR Congo rewrote history.
Uzbekistan looked on course for victory after captain Eldor Shomurodov gave his side the lead with a superb first-half strike.
However, DR Congo responded strongly after the break. Wissa levelled from the penalty spot in the 68th minute before substitute Fiston Mayele beat the offside trap by the narrowest of margins to fire the Congolese ahead 10 minutes later.
Wissa sealed the memorable victory deep into stoppage time with his second goal of the match, sparking jubilant celebrations among the players and supporters.
Elsewhere, England recovered from a sluggish first-half performance to defeat Panama 2-0 and finish top of Group L. Goals from Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane ensured Thomas Tuchel’s side advanced as group winners and set up a Round of 32 clash with DR Congo.
The winners of that tie will face either Mexico or Ecuador in the next round.
Croatia also secured their place in the knockout phase with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana. They will take on Portugal, who played out a goalless draw with Colombia in their final group match.
Despite the defeat, Ghana also progressed and will face Colombia in another Round of 32 fixture.
(The Whistler)
