Congo DR vs Uzbekistan — Prediction & Preview

This Group K encounter pits Congo DR's attacking potential against Uzbekistan's defensive solidity in what projects to a tight, competitive affair. The model favors Uzbekistan at 41.5% to win versus Congo DR's 27.4%, with a 31.0% draw probability and an expected scoreline of 1.1–1.4 in Uzbekistan's favor. Both teams will need points to progress, making this a high-stakes fixture where transitional play and set-piece execution could prove decisive.

Sébastien Desabre's Congo DR will likely deploy an attacking 4-3-3 shape, relying on the wide threat of Arthur Masuaku and pressing intensity through Samuel Moutoussamy and Edo Kayembe in midfield. Cédric Bakambu and Meschak Elia will lead the forward line, with support from Yoane Wissa and Gaël Kakuta as rotation options. Fabio Cannavaro's Uzbekistan favors a compact 4-2-3-1, anchored by the defensive midfield pairing of Jaloliddin Masharipov and Dostonbek Khamdamov, who will shield central defenders Rustam Ashurmatov and Khojiakbar Alijonov. Eldor Shomurodov will operate as the spearhead, with Otabek Shukurov and Igor Sergeev providing creative cover. The tactical battle will hinge on whether Congo DR can overcome Uzbekistan's disciplined shape; Cannavaro's side should sit deep and look to counter via the pace of Shomurodov, while Desabre's team must avoid becoming too stretched when Uzbekistan transitions.

For Congo DR, Chancel Mbemba will anchor the defense as captain and must manage Eldor Shomurodov's movement off the shoulder; Cédric Bakambu's positioning in the box and link play will be critical to unlocking Uzbekistan's back line, and Samuel Moutoussamy's ability to control the tempo in midfield and screen the defense will determine Congo DR's ability to press sustainably. For Uzbekistan, Eldor Shomurodov will be the focal point in transition, using his mobility to exploit gaps left by Congo DR's attacking forays; Jaloliddin Masharipov's positioning and passing range from deep midfield will orchestrate Uzbekistan's control, and Rustam Ashurmatov's composure at center-back will be essential to withstanding Congo DR's forward aggression and set-piece threats.