DR Congo vs Uzbekistan World Cup 2026 Preview

The final Group stage match between DR Congo and Uzbekistan carries huge implications for both sides. DR Congo can secure their first-ever World Cup victory and a spot in the Round of 32 with a win, while Uzbekistan must win convincingly to keep their knockout hopes alive.

Stakes and Scenario

• DR Congo: One point from two games. A victory guarantees progression, either as a group runner-up or one of the best third-placed teams.
• Uzbekistan: Requires a win by a significant margin. A draw eliminates both teams.

Coach Sébastien Desabre admitted the Leopards must take risks. “A draw will not be enough. We need to analyze ourselves now and move forward. We’ll be prepared against Uzbekistan. They have some great defenders.”

Tactical Analysis

DR Congo’s Offensive Threat

• Yoane Wissa: The Newcastle loanee has demonstrated clinical finishing and clever movement.
• Cédric Bakambu: Brings experience and physicality up front, capable of holding up play.
• Arthur Masuaku: Effective at delivering dangerous crosses from left wing-back.
• Noah Sadiki: Sunderland’s dynamic ball carrier could provide additional creativity from midfield.

Uzbekistan’s Defensive Setup

• Abdukodir Khusanov & Rustamjon Ashurmatov: Provide stability at the back but will face pace and movement challenges.
• Utkir Yusupov: Veteran goalkeeper tasked with organizing the back line.
• Otabek Shukurov: Deep-lying playmaker aiming to shield the defense and launch counterattacks.

Uzbekistan’s most realistic path is to absorb pressure and strike on the break through Eldor Shomurodov and Oston Urunov.

Viewing Information and Odds

• Date & Time: Saturday, June 27 | 7:30 p.m. ET
• Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
• TV: FOX (English), Telemundo (Spanish)
• Live Stream: Fubo (free trial available)
• Odds: DR Congo -133 | Draw +280 | Uzbekistan +300

Predicted Lineups

DR Congo (4-2-3-1): Mpasi-Nzau; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Sadiki, Mukau; Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Wissa; Bakambu

Uzbekistan (4-4-2): Yusupov; Khusanov, Abdullaev, Ashurmatov, Karimov; Mozgovoy, Shukurov, Nasrulloev; Fayzullayev; Urunov; Shomurodov

Expert Prediction

DR Congo enter this match as favorites and will feel the weight of expectation. Their quality in attack should eventually break down Uzbekistan’s defense. Expect a tense first half, but DR Congo’s urgency will tell:

Predicted Score: DR Congo 1, Uzbekistan 0

Why This Match Matters

A win for DR Congo would mark a historic breakthrough and underline the growth of African football on the world stage. For Uzbekistan, a spirited performance—even in defeat—could lay the foundation for future tournaments and build momentum for the nation’s football program.

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