Uzbekistan face DR Congo on Saturday 27 June 2026 in a FIFA World Cup group stage fixture, the final matchday before the new Round of 32 begins on 28 June. The meeting brings together two nations making historic appearances at the tournament as the expanded 48-team format delivers first-time group meetings from across continents.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of football’s global championship, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July 2026. It is the first edition to feature 48 nations, up from 32, and the first to span three host countries. Teams are split into 12 groups of four, with the top two and the eight best third-placed sides progressing to a new Round of 32 knockout stage.
The expansion has given nations from every confederation more realistic pathways to the finals, creating fixtures like this one that would have been unlikely in the previous 32-team format.
When is Uzbekistan vs DR Congo?
The match is played on Saturday 27 June 2026. Kick-off time is confirmed in FIFA’s official match schedule. As a final-matchday group fixture, it runs simultaneously with the other match in the same group.
Where is Uzbekistan vs DR Congo?
The match is staged at one of 16 confirmed 2026 World Cup venues across the USA, Canada and Mexico. Host cities include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Toronto, Vancouver, Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey.
Key Contenders
Uzbekistan are one of the breakout stories of AFC qualification, reaching the World Cup for the first time in their history. The White Wolves have built a young squad through strong age-group performances, including a run to the AFC U23 Asian Cup final. Many squad members play domestically or in the Russian, Turkish and Gulf leagues, and the side is led by a new generation of technical midfielders.
DR Congo are one of African football’s most talent-rich federations and return to the World Cup for the first time in decades. The Leopards advanced through a competitive CAF qualifying pathway and bring a squad packed with Europe-based professionals, several from top-five European leagues. Their pace and physical presence make them a difficult opponent at any stage.
How to Watch
UK viewers can watch on the BBC or ITV, with streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. US coverage is shared between Fox in English and Telemundo in Spanish, streamed via Fox Sports and Peacock. Canadian fans watch on CTV, TSN and RDS. SBS provides free-to-air coverage in Australia. FIFA+ carries official highlights in most markets.
History and Records
Uzbekistan are making their maiden World Cup appearance in 2026, the culmination of years of gradual progress since independence in 1991. DR Congo, historically known as Zaire, last appeared at a World Cup in 1974, where they became the first Sub-Saharan African nation to qualify. The sides have no competitive senior history together.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold exclusively through FIFA.com/tickets via staggered sales phases including ballots, first-come first-served windows, resale and hospitality packages. Prices depend on match category and seating tier.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Uzbekistan vs DR Congo kick off?
Saturday 27 June 2026. Kick-off time is confirmed in FIFA’s schedule.
Where is the match being held?
At one of 16 host venues across the USA, Canada and Mexico.
How can I watch the match?
BBC or ITV in the UK, Fox or Telemundo in the US, CTV and TSN in Canada, SBS in Australia.
Is this Uzbekistan’s first World Cup?
Yes. Uzbekistan are making their maiden FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026.