Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo on Tuesday at the Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico. The result lifted Colombia to the top of Group K with six points from two matches, ensuring a top-two finish before their final group game against Portugal.
First Half: Colombia Dominate but Fail to Break Through
DR Congo had an early opportunity when Edo Kayembe attempted a long-range effort that went wide, but Colombia gradually took control of a lively first half. James Rodriguez became the first Colombian player to create five goal-scoring opportunities in a World Cup match since Carlos Valderrama against England in 1998, according to OptaJose. Lionel Mpasi stood firm in goal for DR Congo, first denying Jhon Arias, while Daniel Munoz sent the rebound into the side netting. Munoz later came close again with a header that was saved, and although he eventually found the net on the follow-up, the goal was disallowed for offside. Colombia continued to pile on pressure, with Mpasi making saves to keep out efforts from James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz, and Gustavo Puerta. DR Congo nearly struck late in the half, but Arthur Masuaku's dangerous cross narrowly missed Yoane Wissa, who was close to scoring again after his goal against Portugal.
Second Half: Munoz Strike Decides the Contest
After the break, Mpasi remained in inspired form, producing another strong save to deny Diaz from close range before Arias fired the rebound wide through a crowded defence. Colombia's breakthrough finally arrived in the 62nd minute when Munoz scored via a deflected effort after excellent build-up play from substitute Jhon Cordoba. Although Diaz later had two goals ruled out for offside, Colombia held on under late pressure from DR Congo to confirm a top-two finish in Group K ahead of their final match against Portugal.
Group K Standings After Matchday 2
DR Congo still remain in contention for qualification but must beat Uzbekistan and depend on other results going their way. In Group K, Colombia sit top of the table after winning both of their matches, collecting six points from two games with a goal difference of +3 (four goals scored and one conceded). Portugal are placed second with four points from two matches, having recorded one win and one draw, scoring six goals and conceding one, giving them a +5 goal difference. DR Congo are third with one point from two matches, having drawn one and lost one, with a goal difference of -1 after scoring once and conceding twice. Uzbekistan are bottom of the group without a point from their two matches, having lost both games and registering a goal difference of -7, with one goal scored and eight conceded.
Key Performances and Statistics
James Rodriguez's creative output was a highlight, with his five goal-scoring opportunities marking a historic achievement for Colombia. Lionel Mpasi's goalkeeping kept DR Congo in the game for long periods, making several crucial saves. Daniel Munoz's winning goal was his first of the tournament, and Jhon Cordoba's assist off the bench proved decisive. Colombia will now face Portugal in their final group match, while DR Congo take on Uzbekistan with their knockout hopes hanging in the balance.
