Preview: DR Congo vs Uzbekistan prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026

Les Léopards hold a one-point lead over the White Wolves.

Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, will host an intriguing encounter between DR Congo and Uzbekistan from Group K of the FIFA World Cup 2026. DR Congo are currently sitting at the third spot with a single point to their name from the opening two games.

They started their World Cup campaign with an impressive 1-1 draw against Portugal. They followed that up with a narrow 1-0 loss against the South American nation, Colombia.

They had won 1-0 against Jamaica in the finals of World Cup qualifiers to secure their place in the competition. With talented players like Yoane Wissa and Arthur Masuaku, DR are in contention to become one of the eight third-placed teams that will qualify to the Round of 32.

Uzbekistan, on the other hand, have had a disappointing debut at the FIFA World Cup. They started their campaign against Colombia, losing 3-1. Their opponents for Round two of the group stages were Portugal.

The final scoreline from this fixture was a 5-0 victory for Roberto Martinez’s men. Uzbekistan are one of the most improved national teams in recent years. However, they still have a lot of work to do before they become a household name in these major competitions.

Kick-off:

• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Stadium: Atlanta Stadium
• Date: Saturday, 27 June
• Kick-off Time: 11:30 PM (GMT) I 06:30 PM (EST) | 28/06/2026 – 05:00 AM (IST)
• Referee: Not decided
• VAR: In use

Form:

DR Congo (in all competitions): L-D-L-D-W

Uzbekistan (in all competitions): L-L-L-L-W

Players to watch out for:

Cédric Bakambu (DR Congo)

Cédric Bakambu is one of the most important players for DR Congo coming into this tournament. He was Congo’s top goalscorer in the CAF World Cup Qualifiers. He found the back of the net on four occasions.

He had a decent season with Real Betis. Bakambu has showcased his quality at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by scoring a goal.

Abdukodir Khusanov (Uzbekistan)

Abdukodir Khusanov is arguably the most talented player Uzbekistan have among their ranks. He had a successful season with Manchester City, where he won both the EFL and the FA Cup. Khusanov plays with maturity that is far beyond his years.

He knows when to hold or jump the line to press the opponent. He is fairly strong on the ball as well.

Match Facts:

• This will be the first-ever clash between DR Congo and Uzbekistan.
• DR Congo lost 1-0 against Colombia in their last game.
• Uzbekistan lost 5-0 against Portugal in their last game.

DR Congo vs Uzbekistan: Betting tips and odds

• Tip 1: DR Congo to win – 2.09 by Stake
• Tip 2: Both teams to score – Yes – 1.58 by Dafabet
• Tip 3: Expected Goals – Over 2.5 – 1.66 by 1XBET

Injury and Team news:

DR Congo have their entire squad available for selection.

However, Uzbekistan will be without Jaloliddin Masharipov for their upcoming clash.

Head-to-Head:

This will be the first-ever clash between these national football teams.

Predicted Lineups:

DR Congo (5-3-2)

Nzau (GK); Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Mukau, Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Wissa, Bakambu

Uzbekistan (3-4-2-1)

Nematov (GK); Khusanov, Abdullaev, Ashurmatov; Karimov, Khamrobekov, Shukurov, Nasrullaev; Fayzullaev, Ganiev; Shomurodov

Match Prediction:

The encounter between DR Congo and Uzbekistan is expected to be a close affair. Both nations are chasing their first win of the tournament at the moment. They can still secure a qualification by becoming one of the top eight best third-placed teams.

Our prediction for the game will be:

Prediction: DR Congo 2-1 Uzbekistan

Telecast details:

India: Unite8 Sports Channels, ZEE5

UK: BBC & ITV

USA: FOX Sports

Nigeria: DStv, GOtv

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