Uzbekistan's Possible Lineup to Face DR Congo at the FIFA World Cup 2026

Uzbekistan needs a win in its final Group K match to keep its slim mathematical hopes alive as one of the best third-placed teams.

Uzbekistan looks to finish with a win

The Uzbekistan national team enters its final group-stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup needing three points against DR Congo to keep its slim qualification hopes alive.

Fabio Cannavaro's side has yet to pick up a point in the tournament after defeats to Colombia and Portugal, meaning only a victory would leave the Asian side with a mathematical chance of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.

Even with a win, Uzbekistan would still need favorable results elsewhere to extend its World Cup journey.

FIFA World Cup

How And Where To Watch: DR Congo vs Uzbekistan

Cannavaro continues to back his players

Despite the results, Fabio Cannavaro has publicly defended his squad's effort after the heavy loss to Portugal.

The Italian coach acknowledged the level of opposition in the group and highlighted that his players continued competing even during the most difficult stretches of the match.

Now, he will hope for a stronger response against DR Congo as Uzbekistan looks to leave the tournament with a more positive final impression.

Uzbekistan's possible lineup

Cannavaro is expected to rely on the core group he has used throughout the World Cup.

Possible Uzbekistan lineup:

Goalkeeper: Utkir Yusupov

Defenders: Rustam Abdullaev, Rustam Ashurmatov, Abdukodir Khusanov

Midfielders: Farrukh Sayfiev, Otabek Shukurov, Oleksandr Mozgovoy, Diyor Karimov

Attacking Midfielders: Dostonbek Khamdamov, Abbosbek Fayzullaev

Forward: Eldor Shomurodov

One last chance to keep dreaming

With no margin for error left, Uzbekistan will try to close the group stage with a victory that keeps its mathematical chances alive.

The attacking leadership of Eldor Shomurodov and the creativity of Abbosbek Fayzullaev will be key against a DR Congo defense that has shown resilience throughout the tournament.

With pride on the line and qualification still technically possible, Uzbekistan will aim to deliver a performance that reflects the growth of its football on the world stage.