The Leopards have done it! DR Congo staged an absolute thriller of a comeback to secure their spot in the World Cup last 32, leaving Uzbekistan stunned and England waiting nervously. The Africans trailed 1-0 at half-time, but a second-half explosion sparked by Yoane Wissa's brilliance ensured they bounced back from the brink.
Uzbekistan had taken an early advantage through Shomurodov in the 10th minute, exploiting a defensive mix-up to go one up. The Leopards thought they'd levelled just after when Nathanaël Mbuku found the net, but a contentious VAR decision ruled it out – and suddenly DR Congo were facing an uphill battle as they headed into half-time with their World Cup dreams hanging by a thread.
But Wissa had other plans! The second half saw him take centre stage, scoring twice to turn the game on its head. His first was a calm finish inside the right post that sent shivers down the spines of his teammates and sparked hope among the raucous Atlanta Stadium crowd. Then, with just over ten minutes left on the clock, Fiston Mayele pounced on a shot attempt from Elia to send DR Congo into the lead.
The final nail in the coffin came in stoppage time when Wissa curled a majestic shot from outside the area into the far corner, completing his brace and securing a thrilling victory for the Leopards. The win means they won't have to travel to the next round – and on Wednesday, they'll be returning to Atlanta Stadium to face England in the last 32.
The players erupted in jubilation, hoisting Wissa onto their shoulders as they celebrated his heroics in style. What a night it will go down in history – and what an unforgettable chapter for this DR Congo squad!