​DR Congo joined the ranks of World Cup overachievers by advancing to the knockout rounds for the first time, celebrating a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan that sealed their place in the last 16. The outcome also meant Iran’s rollercoaster campaign ended in elimination as the group phase drew to a chaotic close. In Group J, Austria and Algeria fought to a remarkable 3-3 draw that changed Iran’s hopes of progressing, with late drama disrupting the anticipated outcomes. Riyadh Mahrez had given Algeria a 3-2 lead in stoppage time, only for Sasa Kalajdzic to head in for Austria in the sixth minute of added time, snatching a dramatic point and sparking pandemonium in Kansas City. Austria midfielder Marcel Sabitzer described the finale as “weird,” noting that they felt they had progressed before a late twist altered everything, yet they remained elated by the result.
The day’s excitement continued as DR Congo made history by defeating Uzbekistan in Atlanta, securing third place in Group K and becoming the latest African side to reach the knockout stage. It was DR Congo’s first World Cup win, and it set up a dream showdown with England in the next round. DR Congo striker Yoane Wissa spoke for his teammates, saying they fight for their nation and represent what the team stands for, emphasizing the significance of their achievement.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Lionel Messi continued to light up the tournament, coming off the bench to score in Argentina’s 3-1 win over Jordan, bringing his tally to six goals in three matches. Argentina had already sealed top spot in Group J and controlled the game against the eliminated Jordanians in Arlington, Texas, with Messi’s strike elevating his career World Cup total to a record 19 goals. Earlier in the day, England confirmed their place in the knockout rounds as Group L winners with a 2-0 win over Panama at MetLife Stadium, a match in which Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane found the net to set up a round-of-16 clash with DR Congo in Atlanta. In another fixture, Colombia topped Group K by holding Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal to a 0-0 draw in Miami, meaning Portugal would instead face Croatia in the last 32.