FIFA World Cup 2026: Colombia qualify for Round of 32 after 1-0 win over DR Congo
Zapopan Jun, e 24
Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after a hard-fought victory over Congo DR on Tuesday.
Congo DR had an early look at a goal when Edo Kayembe attempted a long-range effort, but it went wide as Colombia gradually took control of a lively first half.
During the clash, James Rodriguez is the first player from Colombia to create five goal-scoring opportunities in a World Cup match since Carlos Valderrama against England in 1998 (5), according to OptaJose's X handle.
Lionel Mpasi stood firm in goal for Congo DR, 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. Congo DR 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.
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 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 Congo DR to confirm a top-two finish in Group K ahead of their final match against Portugal.
Congo DR 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 6 points from 2 games with a goal difference of +3 (4 goals scored and 1 conceded).
Portugal are placed second with 4 points from 2 matches, having recorded one win and one draw, scoring 6 goals and conceding 1, giving them a +5 goal difference.
Congo DR are third with 1 point from 2 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 1 goal scored and 8 conceded.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Sad for DR Congo but they fought well. Lionel Mpasi was outstanding in goal – kept them in the game for so long. Colombia's depth really showed in the second half. Why can't India produce players with that kind of composure? We have the population but lack the system.
Munoz scoring after all those near misses – typical striker's luck! But credit to Cordoba for that build-up play. India vs Colombia in 2026 would be a dream match! 😅 One can only hope our boys qualify someday.
Group K is interesting – Portugal vs Colombia should be a cracker! Both teams playing attractive football. And DR Congo still have a mathematical chance which keeps it exciting. Wish India could experience such tension in a World Cup group stage! 🙏
Colombia looking solid so far. That midfield with James and Diaz is creative but they need to be more clinical. So many chances wasted! Against Portugal, that could cost them. Good to see African teams like DR Congo competing though – shows the continent's growth.
The offside calls on Diaz were harsh but correct. VAR doing its job properly unlike some leagues *cough* ISL *cough*. Colombia's goal difference of +3 could be crucial if Portugal beat them. What a tournament this is shaping up to be – makes me sad we're not there yet.
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