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2026 World Cup: DR Congo, Portugal join Colombia in advancing from Group K to round of 32

The African nation came from a goal down to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1.

• June 28, 2026
Dr Congo players at the World Cup
Dr Congo players at the World Cup

The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday qualified for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, for the first time in their history.

The African nation came from a goal down to defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 in their final Group K match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, to finish as one of the best third-placed teams.

Eldor Shomurodov put Uzbekistan ahead in the 10th minute, but it was all DR Congo in the second half. A Yoane Wissa brace, comprising a penalty in the 68th minute and a sizzling goal in the 91st minute, along with Fiston Mayele’s finish in the 78th minute, sealed the victory.

Meanwhile, Colombia and Portugal played out a goalless draw in the group’s other fixture, played at the same time at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Colombia had already booked their place in the round of 32 before the match, and the draw was enough for Portugal to also advance to the next stage.

Colombia finished top of the group with seven points, Portugal had five points, DR Congo amassed four points, while Uzbekistan finished without a point.

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