Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after edging tournament debutants DR Congo 1-0 in a tightly contested Group K encounter, with defender Daniel Muñoz producing the decisive moment in the second half.
Muñoz’s stunning long-range strike in the 75th minute finally broke the resistance of a disciplined Congolese side that had frustrated Colombia for much of the evening with an organised five-man defensive line.
Both nations named unchanged starting line-ups following encouraging opening-round performances.
Colombia head coach Néstor Lorenzo retained the same XI that defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 in their World Cup opener, continuing to show faith in goalkeeper Camilo Vargas despite criticism following the mistake that led to Uzbekistan’s goal.
Midfielder Gustavo Puerta also kept his place after an impressive debut performance, while attacking duo Luis Suárez and Luis Díaz once again spearheaded Colombia’s frontline. Veteran captain James Rodríguez provided his experience from midfield as Colombia looked to dictate possession.
Meanwhile, DR Congo stuck with the side that earned a remarkable 1-1 draw against Portugal in the nation’s first World Cup appearance in 52 years, opting for a compact five-defender system designed to neutralise Colombia’s attacking threats.
The tactical approach worked effectively throughout the opening 45 minutes, with DR Congo frustrating Colombia and limiting clear-cut scoring opportunities as the teams went into halftime locked at 0-0.
Colombia increased the pressure after the restart, but DR Congo’s disciplined defensive organisation continued to withstand wave after wave of attacks.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute. Right-back Daniel Muñoz unleashed a powerful long-range effort from the right side, beating the Congolese defence and goalkeeper to hand Colombia the crucial advantage.
It proved to be the decisive moment of the match, as Lorenzo’s side expertly managed the closing stages to preserve their slender lead and collect all three points.
The victory guarantees Colombia’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, maintaining their perfect start to the tournament with consecutive victories in Group K.
Although defeated, DR Congo can take pride from another disciplined and competitive display after previously earning a surprise draw against Portugal.
The African side will now head into the final group-stage fixture needing a positive result to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive, while Colombia can approach their final Group K encounter with confidence after securing early qualification.
For Colombia, patience and persistence ultimately paid off, with Daniel Muñoz’s moment of brilliance proving enough to overcome one of the tournament’s most resilient defensive performances.
Credit Photo : FCF
