The Leopards completed a sensational comeback to secure progression to the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time in their history, as goals from Yoane Wissa, who grabbed a brace, and Fiston Mayele delivered an emphatic victory.
Having lost their opening two matches, Uzbekistan started on the right note and thought they had taken the lead when Eldor Shomurodov found the back of the net, but it was ruled offside.
However, with only 10 minutes played, Shomurodov shocked the Leopards with a superb goal after he looped home a delicious finish from a tight angle.
D.R Congo had Nathanael Mbuku’s effort disallowed after seven minutes, and they had to wait until the 68th minute when Wissa drew them level from the penalty spot.
The Leopards went 2-1 up when Meschack Elia’s shot was deflected into the path of Mayele, who scored past Abduvohid Nematov, before Wissa added his second in injury time to ensure D.R Congo qualified for the knockout stage.
D.R Congo knows how to respond
“We have to congratulate the players — they were the ones who were extraordinary. We’re a team that knows how to respond when we concede a goal; we keep fighting with determination,” said Desabre as quoted by FIFA.com.
“We were a little more offensive today, and I’m glad everyone could see that we’re capable of scoring goals. That’s great. I have to congratulate my coaching staff as well; we’re really proud and happy for all Congolese people.”
The history qualification will see the Leopards come up against England in the next stage. Speaking on the game, Desabre said they have already shifted focus to the Round of 32 clash.
“We’ll start work immediately on preparing. We’ve got a few players in the squad who play at clubs in the English league, so they will help us, but we’ll prepare in the best way we can for what is going to be a very big match for us,” added Desabre.
On going down with only 10 minutes played against Uzbekistan, Desabre said: “Of course, you are never sure of winning, but what is clear is that we made a mistake in giving them too much space early on.
“But since the start of this World Cup, we’ve planned to use players in this match who did not get to play in the first two games (against Portugal and Colombia).
“To have fresh players provided us with an advantage, and it was quite logical that we should go on and win.”
D.R Congo versus England for Atlanta
Speaking after the game, Wissa said: “I’m just one piece of the puzzle. Today was very tough — the weight on our shoulders was hard to bear. There are things we need to fix.
“But the most important thing is this historic Round of 32. We’re going to savour this moment because it’s been tough. All the guys — the substitutes, those who’ve worn the jersey before, and those who’ll wear it tomorrow — we should be proud.
“Thank you to all the Congolese people; it’s for moments like these that we do what we do. We did it!”
The Leopards will face England on Wednesday, July 1st at Atlanta Stadium.
