Congo DR stand a real shot at climbing the Group K table when they face Uzbekistan on June 27. The Congolese side already have a point on the board after their 1-1 draw with Portugal, while Uzbekistan sit pointless after two defeats.
Yoane Wissa carries the main threat up front for Congo DR. He has looked sharp in recent outings and will fancy his chances against a defense that has shipped five goals across their last three matches. Uzbekistan rely heavily on Eldor Shomurodov to create chances, yet their attack has struggled to find the net consistently.
Recent form tells its own story. Congo DR drew 0-0 with Denmark, lost 1-2 to Chile and edged Jamaica 1-0 in March. Uzbekistan have lost three of their last four, including a 1-3 defeat to Colombia and a 0-2 reverse against Canada. That run leaves the Central Asians with plenty to prove on their World Cup debut.
Both teams line up in familiar shapes. Congo DR are expected to stick with a 4-2-3-1, giving Wissa support from midfield. Uzbekistan look set for a 3-4-2-1 or similar, aiming to stay compact and hit on the break.
Standings show Congo DR in third with one point from two games. Uzbekistan are bottom with zero. A win for the Congolese would ease their path toward the last 16, while Uzbekistan need something positive just to stay in touch.
This marks the first meeting between the sides, so history offers no clues. Congo DR return to the tournament after 52 years away, bringing experience that Uzbekistan simply lack at this level.
Recommended Bets
Congo DR to win @2.15 — They already have a point and face a side that has lost three of its last four outings.
Under 2.5 goals @1.85 — Both teams have kept things tight in recent draws and low-scoring friendlies.
Congo DR -0.5 handicap @2.00 — Their extra point and home-like comfort in the group stage should see them edge this one.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
