Colombia Defeats DR Congo 1-0 to Secure World Cup Knockout Spot

First Published 3 hours ago
🔴 Live Update 2 hours ago3 Updates by 2 sources

Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 with a 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Guadalajara. The win on Tuesday gives Colombia six points from two matches in Group K, guaranteeing them a top-two finish with a game to spare.

Colombia dominated much of the match but were repeatedly denied by DR Congo’s goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi, who made several saves in the first half against players including Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez, and Luis Diaz. A goal by Daniel Munoz was also ruled out for offside before halftime.

The breakthrough came in the second half when Munoz scored with the help of a deflection. Substitute Jhon Cordoba played a key role in the build-up to the goal. Colombia continued to press, with Luis Diaz having two additional goals disallowed for offside.

Following the match, Colombia’s coach Nestor Lorenzo praised his team’s composure and varied attack against a disciplined DR Congo defence. He also thanked the large contingent of Colombian supporters at the stadium in Mexico.

Colombia’s final group stage match will be against Portugal. Despite the defeat, DR Congo remains in contention to advance and will need a win against Uzbekistan in their last group game, along with favourable results in other matches.

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The match marked a milestone for James Rodriguez, who made his 10th World Cup appearance, equalling the Colombian record held by Freddy Rincon and Carlos Valderrama. By halftime, Colombia had registered 15 shots, with six on target. Following the victory, goalscorer Daniel Munoz told Colombian TV, “Just because I scored the goal doesn’t mean I’m the hero. We secured the three points as a team, as Colombia; here, we’re one family.”

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