World Cup 2026: DR Congo face Uzbekistan in decisive Group K clash

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Uzbekistan meet on 27 June 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta at 00:30 GMT+1 in a key group-stage match at the 2026 World Cup. This Group K fixture is of major importance: DR Congo, with one draw and one defeat, have 1 point, and a victory would move them very close to the round of 16. Uzbekistan, bottom of the group with two defeats, must win to stay in contention.

Group K also includes Portugal and Colombia, with five matches already played. DR Congo lost 0-1 to Colombia, while Uzbekistan suffered a heavy defeat against Portugal (0-5). Those setbacks leave both nations in a difficult position before their meeting.

After a 52-year absence, DR Congo are back on the world stage thanks to their playoff victory over Jamaica (1-0), secured by Axel Tuanzebe. Under Sébastien Desabre, the team rely on a physical, direct game, highlighting the pace of their forwards, including Cédric Bakambu, their attacking figurehead.

Uzbekistan, qualified for the World Cup for the first time, posted an impressive qualifying record (15 wins, 1 draw, 0 defeats). Head coach Fabio Cannavaro has imposed a style based on possession and high pressing. Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov represents Uzbekistan’s main attacking threat.

The contest promises to be tactical between the Congolese 4-4-2 setup and the Uzbeks’ 3-4-2-1 system, with Sébastien Desabre looking to strengthen the defence while making use of the Bakambu-Wissa partnership, while Cannavaro will count on midfield control to provide service to Shomurodov.

Focus on DR Congo

Sébastien Desabre lines up a classic 4-4-2 with Lionel Mpasi Nzau in goal and a defence made up of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe and Arthur Masuaku. The midfield is driven by Nathanaël Mbuku, Samuel Moutoussamy and Noah Sadiki, supporting forward Brian Cipenga. The attack relies on Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu, attacking engines capable of unlocking the match.

The coach is counting on tactical balance to compensate for the weaknesses seen against Colombia, seeking to reinforce defensive solidity while exploiting the pace and power on the wings through Mbuku and Wissa. The use of moderate pressing should help limit mistakes while quickly setting up counterattacks.

Focus on Uzbekistan

Fabio Cannavaro has a 3-4-2-1 setup geared towards possession and high pressure. Abduvokhid Nematov is in goal, with a central defence made up of Abdukodir Khusanov, Jakhongir Urozov and Rustam Ashurmatov. The midfield consists of Khozhiakbar Alizhonov, Akmal Mozgovoy, Otabek Shukurov and Sherzod Nasrullaev. In attack, Dostonbek Khamdamov and Abbosbek Fayzullaev operate in support of centre-forward Eldor Shomurodov.

Without the suspended Anzur Ismailov, the Uzbek defence will need to show discipline against the Congolese bursts of pace. Cannavaro’s desire to dominate the ball should help neutralise the opposition’s strong spells and create chances through combinations between Khamdamov, Fayzullaev and Shomurodov, who will be threatened by the density of the Congolese defence.

DR Congo

Second half 73' 1-1 Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Uzbekistan

28/06/2026 00:30 · Group K

Group K schedule

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View match details for Portugal - DR Congo

17/06 Group K

Portugal

Finished 1-1 NRG Stadium

DR Congo

View match details for Uzbekistan - Colombia

18/06 Group K

Uzbekistan

Finished 1-3 Estadio Azteca

Colombia

View match details for Portugal - Uzbekistan

23/06 Group K

Portugal

Finished 5-0 NRG Stadium

Uzbekistan

View match details for Colombia - DR Congo

24/06 Group K

Colombia

Finished 1-0 Estadio Akron

DR Congo

View match details for Colombia - Portugal

28/06 Group K

Colombia

Second half 74' 0-0 Hard Rock Stadium

Portugal

View match details for DR Congo - Uzbekistan

28/06 Group K

DR Congo

Second half 73' 1-1 Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Uzbekistan