World Cup: Congo shocks Uzbekistan, Messi scores, Algeria-A…
Congo shocks Uzbekistan, Messi fires again, Algeria-Austria thriller sets up epic Round of 16
The World Cup delivered knockout-stage drama with Congo’s upset, Messi’s latest goal, and a wild Algeria draw that reshaped the tournament’s landscape.
The World Cup’s group stage closed with seismic results, setting up a knockout stage packed with intrigue. The Democratic Republic of Congo dismantled Uzbekistan 3-1 behind a dominant display, earning a Round of 16 clash with England. Algeria and Austria produced a 3-3 thriller, with Riyad Mahrez scoring twice before Austria’s last-gasp equalizer forced a draw.
Lionel Messi kept Argentina’s title defense on track with a goal in their 3-1 win over Jordan, sealing top spot in Group A. Congo’s victory over Uzbekistan was built on clinical finishing and midfield control. Goals from Chancel Mbemba, Jonathan David, and Arthur Masuaku put the game beyond Uzbekistan’s reach by the 78th minute, capping a performance that announced Congo as a genuine dark horse.
England, now Congo’s Round of 16 opponent, will face a physically imposing and tactically disciplined side that has shown no fear of the tournament’s giants. The Congolese team’s physicality and pressing intensity forced Uzbekistan into repeated errors, while their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack exposed gaps in Uzbekistan’s backline. This tactical blueprint mirrors the approach that propelled lower-ranked teams like Morocco and Japan deep into past tournaments, signaling Congo’s potential to disrupt the knockout stage.
Their aggressive high press, combined with direct counterattacks, has drawn comparisons to Belgium’s 2018 World Cup run, where they dismantled top sides with similar tactics. Algeria’s rollercoaster against Austria showcased the chaos that defines this World Cup. Mahrez’s first strike, a 10th-minute penalty, gave Algeria an early lead, but Austria clawed back through Konrad Laimer and Marcel Sabitzer.
With time expiring, substitute Karim Konaté drilled home a 90+3 equalizer, sparking wild celebrations in the Algeria camp. The draw leaves Algeria needing a result in their final group game to advance, while Austria’s resilience keeps their knockout hopes alive. Algeria’s inability to hold onto leads—despite dominating possession—highlights a recurring issue that has plagued them in major tournaments.
Their 68% possession in the match underscored their dominance, yet defensive frailties allowed Austria to exploit set-pieces and quick transitions, a pattern that has cost them dearly in previous editions. Messi’s goal against Jordan—his third of the tournament—was vintage: a mazy run cutting inside before firing low past the keeper in the 66th minute. Argentina’s 3-1 win confirmed top seeding in Group A, with Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández adding further gloss.
The defending champions now await either Nigeria or Croatia in the Round of 16, a matchup that promises fireworks. Messi’s continued goal-scoring form, now at three goals in three games, underscores his importance to Argentina’s campaign. His ability to dictate play and create chances, even in less dominant performances, remains a key asset for a team that has looked vulnerable at times, particularly in midfield battles against physically robust opponents.
Algeria manager Djamel Belmadi admitted his side’s defensive lapses were costly but praised the character shown in the final minutes. “We controlled the game but gave away too many chances. The last play was pure desire,” he told reporters.
Meanwhile, Congo skipper Mbemba warned England: “We’re here to fight. ” Belmadi’s frustration reflects Algeria’s history of collapsing in critical moments, while Mbemba’s defiance signals Congo’s intent to challenge England’s traditional footballing hierarchy. The contrast in managerial philosophies—Belmadi’s possession-heavy approach versus Mbemba’s emphasis on directness—highlights the tactical diversity on display in this World Cup.
What’s next: The Round of 16 kicks off with Congo vs. England, a clash of styles and ambitions. Algeria must beat their final group opponent to avoid a playoff, while Argentina and Messi aim to keep their title defense on course against a resurgent opponent.
The unpredictability of this World Cup suggests that no team, regardless of pedigree, can afford to underestimate their opponents. The knockout stage’s intensity will demand tactical adaptability and mental resilience, traits that Congo and Algeria have already displayed in spades. The Round of 16 also sets up potential rematches of past World Cup clashes, adding another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a knockout stage for the ages.
The Round of 16 also sets up potential rematches of past World Cup clashes. England, who last faced Congo in a 2018 friendly, will now meet them in a high-stakes knockout tie. For Argentina, a potential clash with Nigeria or Croatia revives memories of their 2014 quarterfinal loss to Belgium and their 2018 Round of 16 defeat to France.
These narratives add another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a knockout stage for the ages. Read at GNews.io
Why this matters
These results underscore the World Cup’s volatility, where underdogs can rise and favorites can sweat. Congo’s emergence as a genuine threat to England’s ambitions redefines what’s possible in knockout football, while Algeria’s resilience against Austria highlights the tournament’s capacity to produce unforgettable drama. Messi’s consistency keeps Argentina as favorites, but the knockout stage’s unpredictability ensures no team is safe. The Round of 16 now features a mix of traditional powerhouses and relative outsiders, ensuring that the tournament’s narrative remains wide open. For neutrals, this is a feast of unpredictability; for the teams involved, it’s a high-wire act where one mistake can end a campaign. The tactical innovations on display—from Congo’s high press to Algeria’s possession dominance—signal a shift in how lower-ranked teams approach elite competition, forcing established powers to adapt or face elimination.
Frequently asked
How did Congo qualify for the Round of 16?
Congo secured their spot by beating Uzbekistan 3-1 in their final group match, finishing second in their group behind Spain.
Who scored for Algeria against Austria?
Riyad Mahrez scored twice for Algeria, while Karim Konaté equalized in stoppage time to salvage a 3-3 draw.
What’s next for Argentina after topping their group?
Argentina will face the winner of the Nigeria vs. Croatia matchup in the Round of 16, likely a high-stakes clash given both sides’ attacking quality.
Did Messi score in Argentina’s final group game?
Yes, Messi scored the third goal in Argentina’s 3-1 win over Jordan, extending his tournament tally to three goals.
Which teams did Congo and England face in the group stage?
Congo topped their group by beating Uzbekistan 3-1 and drawing with Spain 1-1, while England advanced with wins over Slovenia and Denmark.
How many goals did Algeria score in their draw with Austria?
Algeria scored three goals, with Mahrez netting twice and Konaté adding the dramatic late equalizer to make it 3-3.
