After drawing with Portugal and losing to Colombia, The Leopards currently sit in 46th place, maintaining that position. Their 1,472.37 points place them ahead of teams such as Venezuela and Czechia.

Uzbekistan, meanwhile, sit 11 places behind the African side. Following two consecutive defeats and subsequent elimination, the Asian team is ranked 57th, after dropping seven positions.

DR Congo’s hope

Atlanta Stadium will host DR Congo as they look to make history and reach the next stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The point earned on Matchday 1 against Portugal has put them in a strong position to achieve that goal.

To achieve that, they must defeat Uzbekistan to secure at least third place in Group K. With four points already earned, they are well positioned in the standings to advance to the Round of 32.

Uzbekistan also in the mix

Curiously enough, despite losing both of their matches, Uzbekistan are still not officially eliminated from the group stage. A win over DR Congo would lift them into third place in the group, after which they would have to wait to see whether they advance to the Round of 32 or head home.

German referee Felix Zwayer will serve as the head official for the match. The 45-year-old Berlin native, who belongs to UEFA’s elite refereeing corps, boasts extensive experience in the Champions League, Europa League, and Euro 2024, where he handled the semifinal clash between England and the Netherlands.

The complete officiating crew is:

• Head Referee: Felix Zwayer (Germany)
• Assistant Referee 1: Robert Kempter
• Assistant Referee 2: Christian Diss (Germany)
• Fourth Official: Alexandro Hernandez (Spain)
• Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Bastian Dankert (Germany)
• Assistant VAR (AVAR): Dennis Johan Higler (Netherlands)
• Support VAR (SVAR): Jarred Gillett (Australia)

How both sides enter the match

DR Congo enter this encounter facing a critical need to bounce back following a setback that complicated their tournament aspirations. The African squad, under the tactical direction of Sebastien Desabre, currently sits in third place within its zone with just one point, making a victory an absolute necessity.

DR Congo drew against an always-difficult Portugal in their debut but subsequently fell by a narrow 1-0 margin to Colombia. Because of this, they will take the pitch at Atlanta Stadium this Saturday with their teeth bared, knowing a victory will very likely see them advance as one of the best third-place teams.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan, strategically commanded by legendary former Italian defender Fabio Cannavaro, arrive bruised and virtually eliminated. The Asian team did not enjoy the desired start to this World Cup and sits at the very bottom of the Group K standings, registering just a single goal in favor after suffering heavy defeats against Colombia and Portugal. Now, Cannavaro’s squad will look to pull off the biggest shock of the tournament, though the team would need a massive blowout victory to have any hope of advancing to the next round.

The duel between DR Congo and Uzbekistan will be fueled by pure hope, bringing together two national teams whose original dream was simply reaching the big stage. Now, one of them still holds the chance to extend its journey inside a World Cup tournament that has been full of surprises.

Atlanta has been a bustling hub for the tournament, having already hosted four group-stage fixtures, including high-profile matchups like Spain vs. Cape Verde (Group H), Czechia vs. South Africa (Group A), Spain vs. Saudi Arabia (Group H), and Morocco vs. Haiti (Group C).

For DR Congo, the objective is straightforward: win and advance. Currently sitting on one point, a victory would push them to a total of four points. With a solid final goal differential, that tally would almost certainly lock them into a qualifying spot among the best eight third-place teams.

Conversely, Uzbekistan face a mathematically bleak and unrealistic uphill climb to reach the Round of 32. Not only would the Central Asian side need to blow past the Congolese by a margin of more than six goals, but they would also need external help, hoping a team like Algeria fall to Austria by a massive margin to swing the tiebreakers.

Weather for Congo vs. Uzbekistan

Current conditions at kickoff in Atlanta feature a sweltering temperature of 90°F (feeling like 97°F due to humidity) under mostly cloudy skies, with westerly winds at 9 mph and a 19% chance of rain.

The daytime forecast calls for partly sunny conditions with a high of 90°F and a low of 75°F, with a 35% chance of scattered precipitation. Given the stifling atmospheric humidity, both squads will need to carefully manage their energy levels over an intense, physically demanding 90 minutes.

Attendance for Congo vs. Uzbekistan

While Mercedes-Benz Stadium regularly expands to over 71,000 for Atlanta Falcons NFL games and up to 75,000 for concerts, strict FIFA guidelines—including the structural removal of corner seating to accommodate an international-sized natural grass pitch—have capped the venue’s tournament capacity at 68,239.

While a sellout crowd is expected on paper, actual attendance could be impacted by external factors. Stringent, coordinated World Cup travel restrictions and visa suspensions implemented by the host nations in response to the active Ebola outbreak in Central Africa have made it exceedingly difficult for many Congolese fans to make the trek to the United States.

DR Congo arrive at their game against Uzbekistan in Atlanta Stadium with just one point through their first two games of the 2026 World Cup. The three points are enough for the Leopards to get into the next round as one of the best third places.

Thankfully for DR Congo, Uzbekistan come basically eliminated as they’ve lost their two games and have a -7 goal difference. The morale in the team may be very low and that is something DR Congo should be able to capitalize on.

What happens if DR Congo win vs Uzbekistan?

If DR Congo defeat Uzbekistan, they will advance to the 2026 World Cup Round of 32. A victory pushes them to 4 points, locking up third place in Group K and securing one of the coveted spots for the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.

Given that DR Congo have a -1 goal difference, a goal would mean they’d be at least at 0, which is enough to qualify, as Bosnia and Herzegovina and Paraguay are already qualified with lesser goal differences.

What happens if DR Congo tie vs Uzbekistan?

A tie would mean certain elimination for DR Congo, as two points are just not enough for them to hope for a Round of 32 matchup. Hence, only a win suffices DR Congo’s goal of progressing.

What happens if DR Congo lose vs Uzbekistan?

A loss would be the most catastrophic scenario for DR Congo. They would not only be eliminated, but would end up as dead-last in Group K’s standings. It would be a disastrous end to their World Cup campaign.

Group K table entering final matchday

How to watch Congo DR vs Uzbekistan in the USA

Soccer fans across the United States will be able to watch this highly anticipated clash live on FS1 and Telemundo through traditional TV coverage.

Those preferring to stream can follow the action on Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium.

Can I watch Congo DR vs Uzbekistan for free?

U.S. fans can stream this highly anticipated matchup live on Fubo or DirecTV Stream. Eligible new subscribers may qualify for a five-day free trial.

Both platforms offer nationwide live coverage, allowing viewers to follow every key moment and decisive play as it happens.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

DR Congo enters its final group-stage match with everything still to play for, as a win would keep its hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 alive in just the nation’s second tournament appearance.

The African side likely needs a convincing victory to secure a spot among the best third-place finishers, though a second-place finish remains mathematically possible if Portugal loses and DR Congo makes up significant ground on goal difference.

Uzbekistan, meanwhile, has only the slimmest path to advancing, requiring an overwhelming win to have any realistic chance. Their main objective is to finish the tournament on a positive note.

Congo DR vs Uzbekistan: Predicted Lineups

Congo DR (4-3-3): Yehvann Diouf Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku; Samuel Moutoussamy, Noah Sadiki Mukau, Edo Kayembe; Théo Bongonda, Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa

Uzbekistan (3-4-2-1): Utkir Yusupov; Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Husniddin Aliqulov Abdullayev; Khojiakbar Karimov, Otabek Shukurov, Odiljon Khamrobekov, Farrukh Nasrullaev; Abbosbek Fayzullayev, Oston Urunov; Eldor Shomurodov.

What time is the Congo DR vs Uzbekistan match?

The match kicks off today, June 27, at 7:30 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 7:30 PM
Central Time: 6:30 PM
Mountain Time: 5:30 PM
Pacific Time: 4:30 PM

Earlier on Tuesday, the Group K table had briefly reshaped following Portugal’s victory over Uzbekistan. However, the Europeans’ stay at the summit was short-lived, as Colombia’s hard-fought triumph against the Leopards propelled the South Americans right back into the top spot.

Following the latest round of matches, the Group K standings shape up as follows:

Are the DR Congo out of the 2026 World Cup?

No, the DR Congo is not eliminated from the 2026 World Cup just yet. While the African side currently occupies third place with only a single point, advancing to the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams with that current tally would be a massive uphill battle for the Leopards.

The DR Congo will face Uzbekistan in their final group-stage test. A victory would elevate them to four points, which would not only significantly boost their chances of advancing as a top third-placed team, but could also potentially vault them into second place.

Should the DR Congo defeat Uzbekistan and Colombia simultaneously beat Portugal, the Leopards would finish level on points with Cristiano Ronaldo’s side. Since the DR Congo and Portugal drew in their head-to-head opener, overall goal difference would serve as the ultimate tiebreaker to determine who secures the automatic qualification spot.

Uzbekistan won’t be an easy out for the Leopards

Group K remains mathematically alive for every single nation. Although Uzbekistan currently sits at the bottom of the pile with zero points, a win over the DR Congo in the finale would push the Asian side to three points, keeping their dreams alive of sneakily advancing as one of the best third-placed teams in this expanded tournament format.

Through two matches, the DR Congo will enter the finale as the heavy favorite after putting on resilient, eye-catching performances against both Portugal and Colombia. However, Uzbekistan will not let their final World Cup lifeline slip away easily and will undoubtedly offer fierce resistance.

After DR Congo spoiled Ronaldo’s 2026 World Cup debut by holding Portugal to a frustrating draw, the Al Nassr striker responded in trademark fashion with a two-goal masterclass against Uzbekistan. “We are here,” the captain wrote on X, sharing two pictures—one celebrating his clinical performance and another alongside his teammates.

While rumors had circulated that the opening-match setback had sparked internal tension within the Portuguese camp, with Cristiano Ronaldo denying these sugestions, used his platform to shut down the noise. By showcasing a strong message of unity, the veteran leader made it clear that the squad remains completely focused and together as they push deeper into the World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo had an impressive game

In the match against DR Congo, Cristiano Ronaldo finished with a disappointing 6.1 match rating. His anonymous performance prompted heavy criticism, even drawing comments from DR Congo’s Ngal’ayel Mukau, who claimed that Ronaldo was simply not the same player anymore.

However, his latest performance against Uzbekistan was significantly better. Ronaldo fired home a vintage brace, breaking a major Lionel Messi World Cup record in the process and walking away with an impressive 8.5 rating according to SofaScore.

Following its commanding victory over Uzbekistan, Portugal’s path to the Round of 32 looks much brighter. Nevertheless, its final group match against Colombia could prove to be the ultimate decider, heavily depending on how the Cafeteros perform in their Tuesday clash against DR Congo.

When is Portugal facing Colombia?

Portugal returns to action on Saturday, June 27, for its final Matchday 3 fixture in Group K. The showdown against Colombia promises to be an intense battle, with the South American powerhouse also eager to secure a favorable position at the top of the table.

Miami Stadium will host the high-stakes encounter between Portugal and Colombia on June 27 at 7:30 PM (ET). If Colombia manages to defeat DR Congo, Portugal will need a victory against James Rodríguez’s side to officially lock down the group leadership.

With four points so far in Group K, Portugal are virtually through to the round of 32. The lowest Portugal could finish in their group is third (Uzbekistan has zero points and one game left), and their four-point total should be more than enough to rank among the eight best third-place teams in the 2026 World Cup.

However, neither Ronaldo nor his teammates will want to settle for a third-place finish in Group K. The Lusos are after much bigger prizes and they have the group-winner slot between their sights.

How can Portugal finish first?

Thanks to their dominant 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, Portugal sit in first place in Group K with four points from two games. However, that position may only be temporary, as Colombia could jump to the top spot with a win over DR Congo. Colombia would reach six points with a victory over the Leopards later tonight. As for DR Congo, they could also take over first place if they defeat Colombia by a larger margin than Portugal did against Uzbekistan.

Still, with one game left in the group stage, Ronaldo and company know better than to worry about the standings, especially as their road to the round of 32 is fairly straightforward. If Portugal defeat Colombia on the final matchday, they will finish as the best team in the group, provided DR Congo don’t win against Colombia. On paper, Colombia are favorites to defeat the Central African nation.

Moreover, there are other scenarios which would send Ronaldo and Portugal through to the knockout-stage of the 2026 World Cup, and they don’t all require Portugal defeating Colombia on Saturday, June 27.

Portugal win Group K with:

• Colombia WIN vs. DR Congo + Portugal WIN vs. Colombia
• Colombia LOSS vs. DR Congo + Portugal WIN vs. Colombia + Uzbekistan WIN vs. DR Congo
• Colombia TIE vs. DR Congo + Portugal WIN vs. Colombia
• Colombia TIE vs. DR Congo + Portugal TIE vs. Colombia + Uzbekistan WIN vs. DR Congo
• Colombia TIE vs. DR Congo + Portugal TIE vs. Colombia + DR Congo WIN (by fewer than five goals) vs. Uzbekistan
• Colombia LOSS (by fewer than five goals) vs. DR Congo + Portugal TIE vs. Colombia + DR Congo TIE vs. Uzbekistan

Portugal can finish second or third, too

Regardless of any outcome between Colombia and DR Congo, Portugal can finish second in Group K if they lose against Colombia on the final matchday of the 2026 World Cup group stage. That’s because a loss against Colombia would leave Portugal and Los Cafeteros tied on at least four points, and the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage would go to Colombia.

However, Portugal can also finish third with a loss to Colombia. In order for that to happen, DR Congo must defeat Colombia and Uzbekistan, while Colombia beat Portugal. If all those results occur, then DR Congo will win the group, Colombia will finish second, and Portugal will end up third, hoping to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.

Group K standings after Portugal beat Uzbekistan

Silva will be a substitute as Portugal take on Uzbekistan on matchday 2 of the 2026 World Cup. In an absolute must-win game for the Lusos, Roberto Martinez decided to make two changes to the starting XI, compared to the disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo.

Bernardo Silva has been taken out of the starting XI, making room for Joao Felix instead. The 31-year-old midfielder will give way to the 26-year-old winger, who will bring much-needed speed and dynamism to Portugal‘s attack, which looked powerless in its 2026 World Cup debut.

Leaving Silva out of the starting lineup is purely a tactical decision by the coaching staff. Silva is fit to play and will be available to enter the game if Martinez feels his presence is required.

Portugal’s starting XI

In addition to Felix’s feature, Ruben Dias is back on the lineup for Portugal after missing the 2026 World Cup debut due to lingering discomfort. Back at 100%, the team’s best center back is back in action, joining Renato Veiga in the middle of the defense. With Dias’ return, Portugal may have put together their best possible XI to face Uzbekistan.

Diogo Costa will be the starting goalkeeper; Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.

Notable absences

Due to Portugal’s depth and FIFA rules only allowing 11 players to take the pitch, Martinez always had some tough decisions to make. Thus, the starting lineup to face Uzbekistan feature several household names that are conspicuous by their absence. That’s not taking into account players like Pepe, who retired and won’t be playing at the 2026 World Cup.

Among the active players in the 26-man squad, the team set to take on Uzbekistan will be without Rafael Leao, who isn’t starting, as well as the aforementioned Bernardo Silva, Goncalo Guedes, Goncalo Ramos, and Francisco Conceicao.

Roberto Martinez, for this match to be played in Houston, will surround Cristiano Ronaldo with Joao Felix and Pedro Neto in attack. The Portuguese face a tough challenge following their opening draw against DR Congo.

This will be the starting lineup Portugal will field, with Leao on the bench: Diogo Costa; Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Joao Cancelo, Nuno Mendes; Bruno Fernandes, Joao Neves, Vitinha; Cristiano Ronaldo (C), Joao Felix, Pedro Neto. Another big name who isn’t starting today is Bernardo Silva.

Portugal aim to stay alive in the tournament

Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed will officiate a key match for Portugal’s World Cup ambitions. The Europeans were held to a draw in their opener, so another setback against a lower-ranked team like Uzbekistan could be decisive.

Leao’s influence in attack

Since making his senior international debut in October 2021, Rafael Leao has established himself as a crucial attacking threat for the Portugal national team. As of June 2026, the dynamic winger has earned 45 caps and scored 5 goals for the Selecao.

A key figure in their recent campaigns, Leao helped Portugal lift the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League A trophy and is currently contributing to their campaign on the world stage in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With Cristiano Ronaldo‘s team seeking its first win of the tournament after a draw against DR Congo and Uzbekistan fighting to keep its knockout-stage hopes alive, the stakes are high for both sides as the group phase begins to take shape.

Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed will be the head official for the match today, marking another important assignment for one of Africa’s most respected referees during this World Cup. He arrives with growing international recognition.

Who are the assistant referees for Portugal vs Uzbekistan?

Jalal Jayed of Morocco will referee the Group K clash, with fellow Moroccans Zakaria Brinsi and Mostafa Akarkad serving as assistant referees. FIFA has assigned an all-Moroccan on-field crew, while South Africans Abongile Tom and Zakhele Siwela will act as fourth official and reserve assistant referee, respectively.

The appointment highlights FIFA’s confidence in Morocco’s refereeing program, which has gained increased recognition on the international stage in recent years. Brinsi and Akarkad have regularly worked alongside Jayed in CAF competitions.

With Portugal under pressure to secure its first win of the tournament and Uzbekistan fighting to stay alive in the race for the knockout rounds, the officiating team could face several high-stakes decisions throughout the contest.

What matches has Jalal Jayed officiated at the 2026 World Cup?

Before being assigned to Portugal vs Uzbekistan, Jalal Jayed already handled one match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Moroccan official was in charge of Germany’s dominant 7-1 victory over Curaçao in Group E.

That performance earned positive reviews and appears to have strengthened FIFA’s trust in him as the group stage progresses. His selection for another World Cup fixture demonstrates the governing body’s confidence in his ability.

He has built his reputation through years of officiating in African competitions and international matches, and the World Cup represents one of the most significant stages of his refereeing career.

What is at stake for Portugal against Uzbekistan?

A victory would put Portugal in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 32, while another slip-up could leave its fate uncertain heading into a decisive clash with Colombia.

After opening the tournament with a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo, Roberto Martinez‘s side enters Matchday 2 knowing it cannot afford to drop more points. It currently sits behind group leader Colombia, which defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 in its opening match.

If Portugal defeats Uzbekistan and Colombia also wins its second game, the two favorites would meet in the final group-stage match with first place in Group K potentially on the line. For Uzbekistan, the stakes are even higher.

A defeat combined with a DR Congo victory over Colombia could leave the Central Asian nation on the brink of elimination before the final matchday. Conversely, an upset over CR7’s team would completely reshape the group and revive their hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has insisted that his squad remains calm despite the criticism following the draw against DR Congo. Nevertheless, with Colombia looming in the final group match, three points are almost essential.