Key Takeaways:
- Colombia recorded a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Group K at Estadio Azteca in Uzbekistan’s first-ever FIFA World Cup fixture
- Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored Uzbekistan’s inaugural World Cup goal, equalising after the hour, but Colombia responded with two further goals to seal the result
- Colombia will face DR Congo in their next group match, while Uzbekistan are set to play Portugal
Match Overview
At Estadio Azteca, Colombia emerged 3-1 winners against World Cup debutants Uzbekistan in a Group K encounter that saw history made for the White Wolves. The match started in cautious fashion, but Colombia soon increased their attacking intent, especially as Uzbekistan’s captain Eldor Shomurodov found himself isolated up front.
A Colombia win closes out the first set of group matches. 🫡#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 18, 2026
First Half: Colombia Edge Ahead Late
The contest saw its first major action after 17 minutes when Jhon Arias tested Uzbekistan with a powerful drive from 20 yards, causing excitement among the largely Colombian crowd. The South American side pushed for a breakthrough and came close on the half-hour when Luis Diaz struck the far post following a well-timed run into the left channel.
The deadlock was eventually broken just before half-time. Luis Diaz delivered a superb cross which Daniel Munoz met emphatically, guiding his volley beyond Uzbekistan goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov to give Colombia a deserved lead at the break. By half-time, Fabio Cannavaro’s side had managed only a single shot.
Second Half: Uzbekistan Make History but Colombia Respond
Uzbekistan had difficulty establishing rhythm after the restart, yet stunned Colombia on the hour mark. Eldor Shomurodov unleashed a volley against the woodwork, and Abbosbek Fayzullaev reacted quickest, heading home from close range for Uzbekistan’s first FIFA World Cup goal.
However, Colombia responded almost immediately. In the 65th minute, Gustavo Puerta provided a clever pass to Luis Diaz, whose low strike evaded Yusupov and restored the South Americans’ advantage. Although Uzbekistan showed improvement and greater attacking ambition, their hopes were extinguished in stoppage time as Jaminton Campaz powered in a header to confirm Colombia’s three-point haul.
Statistical Summary
| Team | Score | Goal Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| Colombia | 3 | Daniel Munoz, Luis Diaz, Jaminton Campaz |
| Uzbekistan | 1 | Abbosbek Fayzullaev |
What’s Next?
Having missed out on the 2022 edition, Colombia have made a strong start to this World Cup campaign and will aim for consecutive wins as they prepare to face DR Congo in their next group fixture. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, will look to build on their historic first goal when they encounter Portugal, entering once again as underdogs.
