Congo have a great chance of making it through, and they shouldn't waste this golden opportunity.
Their return to the World Cup after 52 years could come with an extra-special reward. A victory over Uzbekistan could send Congo into the knockout stage, either as the runners-up in Group K or as one of the best third-placed teams.
Here are my Congo vs. Uzbekistan predictions and World Cup picks for June 27.
TOP PICK
Who will win Congo vs Uzbekistan: Congo moneyline (-133)
Congo held Portugal to a 1-1 draw in Houston before losing 1-0 to Colombia in the second round. Overall, they have made a better impression than many expected ahead of the tournament.
The experience and quality of players like Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu, Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have given the entire squad confidence and belief.
Congo need a win to progress, and they should get the job done against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on Saturday. Uzbekistan are already on a goal difference of minus seven, and it would take something close to a miracle for them to reach the next round, even with a victory.
They have conceded eight goals so far, five against Portugal and three against Colombia. Even with Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov in the team, they have struggled to contain their opponents.
I believe Congo will take their chances and win this game, although the victory may be harder to earn than expected. Aside from a shaky defense, Uzbekistan have also struggled in attack.
Their goal against Colombia in their opening World Cup match is the only goal they have scored in their last five games. I'll take Kalshi's -133 for this clash, counting on Congo's motivation and superior individual and collective quality to make the difference.
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Congo vs Uzbekistan Over/Under pick: Over 2.5 goals (+100)
There have been over 2.5 goals in four of Uzbekistan's last five competitive matches. Uzbekistan play with a back three, but that system hasn't done much to solidify their defense.
Colombia scored three against them, while Portugal put five past them.
An attacking duo led by Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu should have no trouble creating chances against a defense that has looked vulnerable on more than one occasion.
See who will have the best opportunities to score goals in our World Cup set-piece takers guide.
Congo vs Uzbekistan projected lineup
Congo (3-5-2): Mpasi, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Wan-Bissaka, Sadiki, Kayembe, Moutoussamy, Masuaku, Wissa, Bakambu.
Uzbekistan (3-4-3): Nematov, Ashurmatov, Khusanov, Abdullaev, Karimov, Mozgovoy, Shukurov, Alijonov, G'aniev, Fayzullaev, Shomurodov.
Congo vs Uzbekistan injuries
Congo: None.
Uzbekistan: None.
Congo vs Uzbekistan weather
Dome.
Congo vs Uzbekistan odds
| Congo | Uzbekistan | |
|---|---|---|
| -133 | Moneyline | +355 |
| +335 | Draw | +335 |
| Over 2.5 (+100) | Total | Under 2.5 (+100) |
Odds courtesy of Kalshi.
How to watch Congo vs Uzbekistan
Check out FIFA's official 2026 World Cup website for more information.
| Location | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia |
| Date | Saturday, June 27, 2026 |
| Time | 7:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | FS1 |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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