Colombia secured a 1-0 victory over DR Congo on Tuesday in Guadalajara, Mexico, ensuring their advancement to the knockout stage of the World Cup. The decisive goal came in the 76th minute from defender Daniel Muñoz, whose left-footed shot deflected off a defender and beat DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who had been instrumental in keeping the match scoreless for much of the game.
Colombia dominated the early stages, putting pressure on Mpasi, who made several key saves, including stops against Luis Díaz and Johan Mojica. Despite Colombia’s attacking efforts, the African side held firm until the break, with their intensity growing after the first drinks interval. Mpasi’s performance included a leg save from Díaz in the 50th minute that preserved the scoreline. Colombia’s own goalkeeper, Camilo Vargas, was also tested late in the match, making crucial saves in stoppage time against Nathanael Mbuku’s long-range strike and a Chancel Mbemba header from a corner.
Colombian star Luis Díaz had two goals disallowed in quick succession late in the second half—one for a foul and another for offside—highlighting the tightly contested nature of the game. This victory gave Colombia six points from two matches in Group K, placing them two points ahead of Portugal with a final group game between the two teams scheduled for Saturday in Miami. A draw in that match would ensure Colombia tops the group and also allow Portugal to progress.
DR Congo, appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974 (when the nation was known as Zaire), continues to face challenges. The team’s preparations were disrupted by an Ebola outbreak at home, which led to travel restrictions preventing many fans from attending the tournament. Among those able to make it was Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, noted for his tribute posing as a statue of the late independence hero Patrice Lumumba during the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite the setback, DR Congo drew 1-1 with Portugal in their tournament opener and still maintains a slim chance of reaching the knockout rounds ahead of their final match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta.
Colombia, ranked 11th in the world and the third highest-ranked South American nation behind Brazil and Argentina, returned to the World Cup last year after missing the 2022 tournament. Their opening win against Uzbekistan was followed by this narrow victory. Playmaker James Rodríguez marked his 10th World Cup appearance, joining Colombian legends Freddy Rincón and Carlos Valderrama with that distinction.
Portugal, meanwhile, boosted their chances of advancing by a comprehensive 5-0 win over Uzbekistan earlier Tuesday in Houston, with Cristiano Ronaldo contributing twice. The stage is set for a critical showdown between Colombia and Portugal, both vying for the top spot in Group K.