Key Takeaways:
- Colombia edged DR Congo 1-0 in their first-ever encounter at Estadio Guadalajara
- Daniel Munoz scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute, taking his tally to two in the tournament
- Colombia have moved two points clear atop Group K ahead of their final group fixture against Portugal this weekend
Match Overview
Colombia confirmed their place in the FIFA World Cup round of 32 following a closely contested 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Group K at Estadio Guadalajara. This fixture marked the inaugural meeting between the two national sides, with the Colombians benefitting from overwhelming support inside the stadium.
Colombia are into the next round! ⏩#FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 24, 2026
Action-Packed First Half
The match commenced at a relentless pace. Within the opening two minutes, DR Congo threatened to stun their opponents as Edo Kayembe unleashed a powerful shot from distance, only narrowly missing the target. In response, Daniel Munoz squandered a promising chance for Colombia after Lionel Mpasi parried Jhon Arias’ strike from inside the penalty area.
Munoz appeared to have opened the scoring moments later, only for his goal to be ruled out due to an offside infringement. Colombia continued to apply pressure, with Mpasi producing an important save to keep out Luis Diaz just after the quarter-hour. By the time the first-half hydration break arrived, Nestor Lorenzo’s charges had accumulated five shots on target, reflecting their attacking intent.
Despite dominating the first period, Colombia were unable to break the deadlock before half-time.
Colombia Take Control in Second Half
The momentum remained with Colombia as the second half commenced. Mpasi was again called upon to make a spectacular save from Diaz, while Arias missed a golden opportunity from inside the box. However, the deadlock was finally broken after 76 minutes, as Daniel Munoz, the Crystal Palace full-back, expertly found the bottom corner, registering his second goal of the competition.
In a dramatic sequence, Diaz managed to put the ball into the net twice but saw both efforts disallowed, the first for a foul and the second for offside. Colombia endured nervous moments in stoppage time but ultimately secured a deserved win, having dominated for much of the encounter.
Group K Standings and Next Fixtures
This result elevated Colombia to the summit of Group K, placing them two points ahead of Portugal ahead of the final round of group matches. Colombia will meet Roberto Martinez’s side this weekend, with a win or draw ensuring they finish top of the group.
Concurrently, DR Congo will target a historic first World Cup victory when they take on Uzbekistan.
