The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) made history by defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 to qualify for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time.
DR Congo fell behind early after Uzbekistan took the lead, but the Leopards showed tremendous resilience with a spirited second-half comeback. Yoane Wissa equalized from the penalty spot before striker Fiston Mayele scored the second goal to put DR Congo ahead, sparking jubilant celebrations among their supporters.
Wissa sealed the memorable victory by adding a third goal in stoppage time.
For Mayele, the strike was his first goal at a FIFA World Cup, further underlining his ability to perform on football's biggest stage.
The victory sends DR Congo into the knockout stage for the first time in the country's World Cup history, ending a 52-year wait since their last appearance in 1974, when the nation competed under the name Zaire.
In the Round of 32, DR Congo will face England in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter.
History has been made, and football fans across Africa will now be watching the Leopards closely as they look to continue their remarkable run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
