Wissa scores twice in stoppage time as DR Congo beat Uzbekistan
Yoane Wissa scored twice in stoppage time to secure a 3-1 comeback win for the Democratic Republic of the Congo over Uzbekistan on June 28, 2026. The victory keeps the DRC unbeaten in World Cup qualif
Yoane Wissa scored twice in stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-1 comeback win for the Democratic Republic of the Congo over Uzbekistan in a high-sta
Read Full Story at NBC News →Why This Matters
The Democratic Republic of the Congo's last-gasp heroics underscore Africa's rising influence in World Cup qualifiers, where underdog narratives often defy statistical expectations. Wissa's stoppage-time double not only preserved an unbeaten record but also demonstrated how late drama can reshape qualification dynamics in a competitive CAF group.
Background Context
Despite decades of political instability and underfunded football infrastructure, the DRC has quietly cultivated a pipeline of technically gifted forwards who thrive in high-pressure European leagues. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, has emerged as a consistent qualifier but remains vulnerable to tactical rigidity when facing opponents with greater individual flair.
What Happens Next
This result shifts momentum in Group G, forcing rivals to reconsider defensive strategies against the DRC's counterattacking prowess. Watch for how Uzbekistan's coaching staff responds—whether they double down on possession or seek to exploit gaps in transition. The next matchday could reveal whether this was a one-off upset or the start of a trend.
Bigger Picture
Wissa's performance aligns with a broader pattern where African strikers, often honed in Europe's lower leagues, deliver decisive moments in continental qualification. As CAF campaigns grow more unpredictable, teams with late-game resilience—backed by diaspora talent—are increasingly dictating the narrative beyond traditional footballing powerhouses.
