Yoane Wissa's outstanding performance for DR Congo, scoring a brace to secure a historic World Cup knockout stage qualification, has provided Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe with a blueprint for maximizing the striker's potential. The 29-year-old, who struggled in his first season at St James' Park, has now matched his entire Premier League goal tally for Newcastle in just three World Cup matches.
Wissa's Heroics Propel DR Congo to Last 32
In a decisive Group K match against Uzbekistan, DR Congo trailed 1-0 at halftime, needing a win to advance. Wissa rose to the occasion in the second half, winning a penalty after being fouled by Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov. He converted the spot-kick to level the score. Fiston Mayele then put DR Congo ahead before Wissa sealed the victory in stoppage time with a curling effort from the edge of the box past goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov.
The win sparked wild celebrations at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium and set up a last-32 clash against England on Wednesday. This marks the first time DR Congo has reached the knockout stages of a World Cup.
From Injury-Prone First Season to World Cup Star
Wissa joined Newcastle from Brentford last summer for £55 million but managed only three goals in his debut campaign, plagued by fitness and injury issues. However, his World Cup performances have demonstrated his ability to influence games at the highest level. According to the article, Howe retains significant faith in Wissa, having pushed for his signing, and hopes the striker can fulfill his potential in his second season.
Tactical Insights: Wissa Thrives in a Front Two
Notably, Wissa has excelled for DR Congo as part of a front two alongside Real Betis forward Cedric Bakambu, operating as a shadow striker that allows him to get on the ball and create chances. At Newcastle, he has often been deployed as a lone central forward, frequently cutting an isolated figure. In the final games of last season, Howe switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Nick Woltemade in the number 10 role and Will Osula starting up front, while Wissa came off the bench as a central striker.
Wissa's international form suggests he could be best utilized in a front two, either alongside Woltemade, Osula, or a potential new signing. In April, Wissa expressed confidence that a full preseason and improved fitness would allow him to showcase his best form for Newcastle. His World Cup displays indicate he is ready to deliver on that promise, which would be a major boost for Howe and the club's prospects next season.
