DR Congo produced a remarkable comeback against Uzbekistan to book a historic place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time ever.
The Leopards recovered from an early setback to claim a 3-1 victory in their decisive Group K encounter, securing third place in the standings and a Round-of-32 showdown with England in Atlanta.
Uzbekistan made the brighter start and took the lead through Eldor Shomurodov, who punished hesitation in the Congolese defence.
A misunderstanding between Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka allowed the striker to pounce and delicately lift the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.
The Central Asians dominated much of the opening period and appeared in control, but DR Congo remained a threat going forward.
The Africans saw a goal disallowed before Nathanael Mbuku tested goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov with a powerful strike.
After the break, DR Congo emerged with renewed determination and found an equaliser when Yoane Wissa earned a penalty after being fouled by Abdukodir Khusanov inside the box.
The Newcastle United forward stepped up and calmly sent Nematov the wrong way from the spot.
The turnaround was completed midway through the second half. Meschack Elia’s effort took a deflection into the path of Fiston Mayele, who reacted quickest to bundle the ball home from close range.
Wissa put the result beyond doubt deep into stoppage time, firing a clinical finish into the far corner from the edge of the area to spark wild celebrations among the Congolese faithful.
The victory sends DR Congo into the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in their history, with England awaiting them in Wednesday’s Round-of-32 clash in Atlanta.
