DR Congo 3-1 Uzbekistan: Five key takeaways from FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

DR Congo have won their first-ever FIFA World Cup match.

With a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan in their final group-stage game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Democratic Republic of the Congo have qualified for the knockout stage of the coveted tournament for the first time in their history.

DR Congo were returning to the World Cup after more than five decades. They did not waste the opportunity. In a historic clash on the final day of the group stage, the Leopards recorded their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory.

On that note, let’s take a look at the five key takeaways from the FIFA World Cup 2026 clash:

5. Uzbekistan’s physical style is restricting them

Fabio Cannavaro has introduced a physical style of play to Uzbekistan since his arrival. However, due to their style, when the White Wolves lose possession, they start committing fouls and making defensive errors. The first goal conceded by the Central Asian country was due to an error.

Additionally, the White Wolves made 14 fouls compared to only six by DR Congo. Such performances show that the team are not comfortable with the ball; rather, they are uneasy.

4. DR Congo attackers lacked composure

Boosting the likes of Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa, DR Congo have a pair of experienced attackers who can shape any game. However, against Uzbekistan, both attackers lacked composure. They were keen to get on the scoresheet and score important goals for the Leopards; however, the hassle only led to a prolonged wait.

After the first 60 minutes, Wissa has the most – four shots in the game. All of them were off-target. At the same time, Bakambu only had two 10 touches on the ball and two accurate passes.

Nevertheless, Wissa got the chance to equalise following Abdulkodir Khusanov’s challenge. He also later scored a goal from outside the box (90+1′).

Also Read: List of all nations qualified for Round of 32 of FIFA World Cup 2026

3. The White Wolves and high work rate

Fabio Cannavaro’s men played with a high work rate. They were chasing loose balls throughout the game, from start to finish. Akmal Mozgovay and Rustamjon Ashurmatov were among the best players on the field for the White Wolves.

Even after conceding a penalty, they continued playing with high hopes.

2. DR Congo dominated Uzbekistan in possession, but very little conversion

DR Congo, who returned to the FIFA World Cup after 52 years in 2026, had a golden opportunity to reach the last 32 of the summer competition by defeating Uzbekistan. Much like a heavyweight vs. minnow game, the Leopards maintained possession for the majority of the game against the White Wolves.

They also completed almost twice as many passes as Uzbekistan attempted. However, DR Congo actually created very few serious goal-scoring opportunities.

1. DR Congo script history; Arthur Masuaku is the real player of the match

Arthur Masuaku was substituted in the 83rd minute, and Joris Kayembe Ditu was introduced. The left-back had the most touches, 91, by any player in the game. He created two chances while maintaining the passing accuracy of 83 per cent, while also making four defensive contributions.

DR Congo have also scripted history by reaching the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time.

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