World Cup 2026: The full journey of DR Congo

Qualifying among the best third-placed teams, the Leopards bow out in the round of 32

Africa 08 July 2026 at 06:38

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World Cup 2026: The full journey of DR Congo

A look back at DR Congo's journey in this 2026 World Cup, from the group stage to their elimination against England.

Drawn into Group K alongside Colombia, Portugal, and Uzbekistan, the Leopards delivered a solid group stage campaign, capped off with a decisive victory on the final day. This allowed them to finish third with 4 points and claim a spot among the tournament's best third-placed teams.

Portugal 1 - 1 DR Congo: João Neves (6') for Portugal; Yoane Wissa (45'+5) for DR Congo.
Colombia 1 - 0 DR Congo: Daniel Muñoz (76') for Colombia.
DR Congo 3 - 1 Uzbekistan: Yoane Wissa (68' pen., 90'+1) and Fiston Mayele (78') for DR Congo; Eldor Shomurodov (10') for Uzbekistan.

A historic first run halted by England

This qualification already marked a groundbreaking achievement for the country, which hadn't reached a World Cup finals since 1974, when it competed as Zaire. The adventure ultimately ended in the round of 32:

England 2 - 1 DR Congo.