Congo DR
Uzbekistan
>Congo DR vs Uzbekistan Prediction & Betting Tips – 28/06/2026
Two sides making their returns to football's grandest stage meet at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on 28 June in a Group K fixture that could define both nations' tournament hopes. Congo DR, appearing at a World Cup for the first time in 52 years, earned a creditable draw against Portugal in their opener. Uzbekistan, competing in their maiden World Cup, fell 3-1 to Colombia. With Portugal and Colombia looming large, this clash between the group's underdogs carries enormous weight; defeat here would all but end realistic ambitions of reaching the knockout rounds.
Match Analysis
DR Congo enter this decisive Group K clash as favorites at 1.80, riding an unbeaten three-match run that includes a creditable 1-1 draw against Portugal. The Leopards lead the group and carry clear structural and psychological advantages into this fixture.
- Unbeaten in 3 consecutive matches (DDW), including a point taken off Portugal in matchday one.
- 0.60 goals conceded per 90 minutes and a 50% clean-sheet rate underline their defensive solidity.
- Group K leaders after matchday one, giving Congo a superior position and motivation to advance.
- Uzbekistan missing Masharipov, Ashurmatov, and Alikulov, thinning their midfield and defensive depth significantly.
Uzbekistan arrive at 4.20 following a 3-1 defeat to Colombia and a recent run of three losses in their last five matches. Coach Cannavaro must reorganize a squad weakened by multiple injuries for this pivotal World Cup debut fixture.
- Recent form reads LLLDW in last 5 games, including a heavy 3-1 loss to Colombia.
- Three confirmed absences in Masharipov, Ashurmatov, and Alikulov disrupt midfield structure and defensive cover.
- Despite a goals-per-shot conversion of 0.28, their attack lacks the depth to consistently break down Congo's low block.
Key point: With both defenses under pressure and limited firepower available, the double chance covering Congo home or draw pairs well with cautious backing of 1.92 in a tight, low-scoring contest.
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
A 4-3-3 against a 3-4-3 sets up an intriguing contest of width versus defensive solidity. Congo DR's probable shape sees Yoane Wissa and Nathanael Mbuku provide pace on the flanks, while Uzbekistan's back three will need to be disciplined in managing those wide channels throughout the match.
It is worth treating Uzbekistan's shape with some caution: their XI is speculated from a single adjusted source rather than confirmed by multiple credible outlets, so the final structure could shift before kickoff. Congo DR's probable lineup carries greater confidence, giving the home side a clearer tactical picture heading into this World Cup group fixture.
Our Verdict
DR Congo's double chance, covering a home win or draw, looks the standout selection here. The Leopards sit top of Group K after holding Portugal, demonstrating defensive solidity and composure at this level. Uzbekistan, by contrast, have lost three of their last five, including a 3-1 defeat to Colombia. With no prior head-to-head record between these sides, form becomes the decisive factor, and it firmly favours Sébastien Desabre's men. The home win price at 1.80 underpins the value in backing DR Congo not to lose this crucial encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bet for Congo DR vs Uzbekistan?
The most coherent wager here is the double chance covering DR Congo or a draw, with the home side available at 1.80. The Leopards sit top of Group K following a creditable 1-1 draw with Portugal, while Uzbekistan arrive depleted, having lost three of their last five and surrendered 3-1 to Colombia. A narrow Congo win or tight draw looks the most logical outcome.
What time does Congo DR vs Uzbekistan kick off?
The match kicks off at 23:30 UTC on 27 June 2026, which translates to 19:30 local time on the East Coast of the United States. The fixture takes place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, one of the premier venues selected to host World Cup matches on American soil.
Where can I watch Congo DR vs Uzbekistan on TV?
Broadcast arrangements for World Cup fixtures vary by territory and are subject to confirmation closer to kickoff. In the United Kingdom, matches are typically shared between the BBC and ITV, both of which offer free-to-air coverage. Viewers are advised to check their respective local listings to confirm which channel will be carrying this particular Group K fixture.
What is Congo DR's recent record against Uzbekistan?
There is no recorded head-to-head history between DR Congo and Uzbekistan. The two nations have never previously met in a competitive or friendly fixture, making this World Cup group stage match a genuine first encounter. With no prior meetings to draw upon, neither side holds a psychological advantage rooted in past results.
