Congo DR
Uzbekistan
Congo DR vs Uzbekistan Predictions, Picks & Odds – 28/06/2026
Congo DR vs Uzbekistan – Best bets of the match
Congo DR vs Uzbekistan Preview
DR Congo sit atop Group K after earning a creditable 1-1 draw against Portugal in their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire. Coach Sébastien Desabre has praised his squad's resilience, and the side's athletic, transition-focused style troubled a strong Portuguese outfit. Despite logistical disruptions to their pre-tournament camp, the Leopards remain unbeaten and hungry to secure qualification from a demanding group.
Uzbekistan are making their historic World Cup debut under Fabio Cannavaro, but results have been difficult so far. A 3-1 defeat to Colombia extended a troubling run of form that has seen just one win across their last five outings. Cannavaro insists his players have "nothing to lose," with Abdukodir Khusanov anchoring the defence and captain Eldor Shomurodov leading the attacking line. The Central Asian side must improve quickly to stay in contention.
DR Congo's double chance selection covers both a win and a draw at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Their resilient showing against Portugal demonstrated serious defensive organisation under Sébastien Desabre, and sitting top of Group K gives them genuine momentum. The home odds at 2.32 reflect their growing confidence, while Uzbekistan's recent form tells a contrasting story.
Uzbekistan have lost three of their last five matches, including a 3-1 defeat to Colombia. Fabio Cannavaro's side showed spirit in that game, but defensive vulnerabilities were evident. Abdukodir Khusanov anchors the backline, yet containing DR Congo's athletic, transition-heavy attack will pose a different challenge entirely. This is uncharted territory for the Central Asian side.
With no prior head-to-head record between these nations, the form book becomes the primary guide. DR Congo's unbeaten start and physical superiority in wide areas should prove decisive. A draw at 3.25 remains a realistic outcome given both teams' defensive tendencies, which is precisely why the 1X double chance, supported by the home price at 2.32, represents the strongest angle for this encounter.
Trends to Know about Congo DR vs Uzbekistan
- DR Congo unbeaten in group stage so far
- Uzbekistan lost three of last five matches
- No prior head-to-head record exists between sides
Form & Statistics: Congo DR vs Uzbekistan
Congo DR
Recent form
Season statistics (4)
Uzbekistan
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Lineups: Congo DR vs Uzbekistan
Congo DR
Starters
- 1 Mpasi
- 2 Aaron Wan-Bissaka
- 3 Chancel Mbemba
- 4 Axel Tuanzebe
- 5 Arthur Masuaku
- 6 Samuel Moutoussamy
- 7 Noah Sadiki
- 8 Meshack Elia
- 9 Nathanael Mbuku
- 10 Cédric Bakambu
- 11 Yoane Wissa
Absent
- Rocky Bushiri (Achilles injury)
- Théo Bongonda (Injury)
Uzbekistan
Starters
- 1 Utkir Yusupov
- 2 Abdukodir Khusanov
- 3 Abdulla Abdullaev
- 4 Umar Eshmurodov
- 5 Farrukh Sayfiev
- 6 Otabek Shukurov
- 7 Odiljon Xamrobekov
- 8 Sherzod Nasrullaev
- 9 Abbosbek Fayzullaev
- 10 Eldor Shomurodov
- 11 Oston Urunov
Absent
- Jaloliddin Masharipov (Spinal disc herniation)
- Rustamjon Ashurmatov (Injury)
- Husniddin Alikulov (ACL injury (long-term))
Low confidence
Congo DR line up in a 4-3-3 against Uzbekistan's speculated 3-4-3, though the Central Asian side's shape carries less certainty, drawn from multiple predictions rather than confirmed sources. Yoane Wissa leads the Leopards' front line, with the wide threat of Nathanael Mbuku adding pace to a potentially fluid attacking unit.
Uzbekistan's three-at-the-back system, if it holds, will demand disciplined wing-back work to contain Congo DR's wide forwards. Eldor Shomurodov anchors the visitors' attack, but given the speculative nature of their XI, tactical adjustments before kickoff remain a genuine possibility.
How to Watch Congo DR vs Uzbekistan Match?
What time is Congo DR vs Uzbekistan?
Congo DR vs Uzbekistan kicks off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on 28 June 2026 at 00:30 BST.
Where is Congo DR vs Uzbekistan being played?
This match takes place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.
How Can I Watch Congo DR vs Uzbekistan on TV and Live Stream?
This match will be broadcast on FIFA's official broadcasting partners in India and worldwide.
>