2026 World Cup Group K: Congo DR vs Uzbekistan Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 27)
- When: Saturday, June 27, 2026. 7:30 PM ET
- Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- How to Watch: FS1
The 2026 World Cup nears the end of the third round of matches with the final matchup in Group K getting underway in Atlanta as Congo DR duels with Uzbekistan. Both squads are fighting for a place in the Round of 32, meaning there will be plenty of pressure on both nations on MD3.
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Congo DR Stats & Team News
Congo DR is in the mix of qualifying through the group stage as a third-place team, needing a win over Uzbekistan to punch their ticket. They pulled off a stunning 1-1 draw against Portugal before taking a step back in their 1-0 loss to Colombia in Matchday 2.
Yoane Wissa hopes to create more scoring opportunities for his nation, knowing that a win is needed for them to advance. As for the defense, they will need to fend off an Uzbek attack that seeks its first-ever win in a World Cup match.
Likely Lineup:
(5-3-2) Mpasi (GK); Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Wan-Bissaka, Masuaku; Sadiki, Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Bakambu, Wissa
Uzbekistan Stats & Team News
Uzbekistan remains alive in the race for a spot in the knockout rounds, suffering losses to Colombia and Portugal by 3-1 and 5-0 scores. Despite this, a win gives them a chance to be among the top eight third-place teams in the standings.
Uzbekistan needs its defense to step up in big ways, suffering lapses in critical moments against the group favorites. However, they continue to be the long shot in this group as Congo DR will give them trouble by using counters on offense as much as possible.
Likely Lineup:
(5-4-1) Nematov (GK) Khusanov, Abdullaev, Ashurmatov, Karimov, Nasrulloev; Ganiev, Khamrobekov, Shukurov, Fayzullayev; Shomurodov
Head-to-Head Stats
- This is the first all-time meeting between Congo DR and Uzbekistan.
- This marks the first competitive meeting between the nations.
Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan World Cup Picks
A draw will guarantee elimination for both teams, indicating that one side must come out on top to have a chance at advancing to the Round of 32. Uzbekistan will try to net one more goal while aiming for the win, but Congo DR might possess the better quality as they attempt to put together big plays to secure the win. It would be safe to believe that Congo DR come out of the match with a 3-1 victory.
