DR Congo Reach FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage as Iran Miss Out in Dramatic Group Finale
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
The final day of the FIFA World Cup group stage delivered plenty of drama, with the Democratic Republic of Congo securing a historic place in the knockout rounds while Iran narrowly missed qualification after a thrilling finish in Group J.
DR Congo celebrated its first-ever World Cup victory by defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 in Atlanta. The result earned the African side third place in Group K and a spot in the Round of 32, where they will face England.
Forward Yoane Wissa praised his team’s determination after the historic achievement.
“We love representing our country, and tonight we showed our fighting spirit until the very end,” Wissa said.
The result continued an impressive tournament for African nations, with nine of the ten teams from the continent progressing beyond the group stage.
Late Equalizer Ends Iran’s World Cup Journey
One of the tournament’s most dramatic moments came in the Group J match between Austria and Algeria.
The entertaining contest ended 3-3 after Austria scored a stoppage-time equalizer through Sasa Kalajdzic. Just minutes earlier, Riyad Mahrez had put Algeria ahead, a result that briefly appeared to open the door for Iran to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Kalajdzic’s late header changed the standings once again, allowing both Austria and Algeria to advance while ending Iran’s World Cup campaign.
Austria midfielder Marcel Sabitzer admitted the closing moments were difficult to process but expressed relief that his team secured qualification.
Messi Continues Outstanding Tournament
Argentina finished the group stage with another victory, defeating Jordan 3-1 after already confirming top spot in Group J.
Lionel Messi came off the bench to score once again, taking his tournament tally to six goals in three matches. The goal also extended his World Cup scoring record to 19 career goals.
Argentina now enters the knockout stage with strong momentum after winning all three group matches.
England Finish Top of Their Group
England secured first place in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the second half before setting up Harry Kane for England’s second goal just minutes later. The result booked England’s Round of 32 meeting with DR Congo.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team’s patience against a disciplined opponent, noting that creating and converting chances was the key difference.
Croatia Advance, Portugal Set for Tough Test
Croatia claimed second place in Group L after defeating Ghana 2-1, with goals from Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic. The victory also ended Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage, leading to manager Steve Clarke announcing his resignation.
Meanwhile, Portugal played out a goalless draw with Colombia. Colombia’s point was enough to finish first in Group K, while Portugal advanced in second place.
The result means Portugal will face Croatia in the Round of 32, with a potential meeting against European champions Spain awaiting if they progress further in the tournament.
