Congo Stun Uzbekistan 3-1 to Reach First Ever World Cup Knockout Stage

Congo produced one of the most memorable turnarounds of the tournament, coming from behind to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 and secure a historic place in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.

The African side, appearing in only their second World Cup after a 52-year absence, showed resilience and belief after conceding early. Uzbekistan struck first through Eldor Shomurodov , whose composed finish in the 10th minute put Congo under immediate pressure and threatened to derail their campaign.

But Sébastien Desabre’s team refused to lose control of the contest. Having already earned attention earlier in the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Portugal , Congo gradually settled into rhythm and increased their attacking intensity after the break.

The turning point arrived in the 68th minute when Yoane Wissa was brought down inside the box by Abdukodir Khusanov . Wissa stepped up under pressure and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, rolling his penalty into the bottom corner to level the score and ignite Congo’s comeback.

Momentum shifted decisively within minutes. Fiston Mayele put Congo ahead in the 78th minute, reacting quickest inside the area to steer home after Meschack Elia’s effort took a deflection and fell kindly at the near post.

With Uzbekistan pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Congo struck again in added time. Wissa capped off a brilliant personal performance with a curling finish into the bottom corner, sealing a famous 3-1 victory and sending Congo into the round of 32 .

The result not only marks a breakthrough moment in Congo football history but also adds another surprise name to the list of emerging forces at this World Cup, alongside fellow underdogs Cape Verde .