Néstor Lorenzo’s side dominates from start to finish and secures a place in the Round of 32, while DR Congo will need a result against Uzbekistan to keep dreaming.
Colombia is through to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After defeating Uzbekistan in their opener, the Cafeteros followed up with another victory, edging DR Congo 1-0 in a match they largely controlled from beginning to end. The decisive goal came in the 76th minute courtesy of Daniel Muñoz, whose relentless runs from the right flank were rewarded with the strike that booked Colombia’s ticket to the Round of 32.
With six points from two matches, Néstor Lorenzo’s team can now look ahead to the final group-stage clash against Portugal as a battle for first place in Group K.
The match at times resembled an attack-versus-defense exercise. Colombia monopolized possession, pinned the Congolese deep inside their own half and created numerous opportunities through Luis Díaz, Jhon Arias and James Rodríguez.
Despite the territorial dominance, the breakthrough proved elusive for much of the evening. Goalkeeper Dimitry Mpasi produced several confident interventions, while Chancel Mbemba and Aaron Wan-Bissaka defended courageously under constant pressure.
Lorenzo sought fresh energy in the second half, introducing Jhon Córdoba and Juan Fernando Quintero. The substitutions increased Colombia’s attacking threat and eventually paid off.
In the 76th minute Daniel Muñoz found space inside the penalty area and calmly converted, finally breaking the resistance of Sébastien Desabre’s men.
DR Congo struggled to impose its usual physical style and rarely threatened Camilo Vargas. Wissa and Bakambu were isolated for long stretches, while the midfield trio spent most of the game chasing shadows.
Colombia’s second consecutive victory guarantees qualification and confirms the South Americans among the most convincing teams of the tournament so far.
Match Report
Colombia 1-0 DR Congo
Scorer:
76′ Muñoz (COL)
Colombia (4-2-3-1)
Vargas; Muñoz, Sánchez, Lucumí, Mojica; Puerta, Lerma; Arias (77′ Ríos), James Rodríguez (58′ Quintero), Luis Suárez (58′ Córdoba); Luis Díaz.
Coach: Néstor Lorenzo
DR Congo (5-3-2)
Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Masuaku (72′ J. Kayembe); Mukau (46′ Sadiki), Moutoussamy (82′ Mbuku), E. Kayembe (72′ Pickel); Bakambu (57′ Banza), Wissa.
Coach: Sébastien Desabre
Referee: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
Yellow Cards: Lucumí (COL)
Red Cards: None
Group K Standings
| Team | Pts | GD |
|---|---|---|
| Colombia | 6 | +4 |
| Portugal | 4 | +5 |
| DR Congo | 1 | -1 |
| Uzbekistan | 0 | -8 |
Colombia has already secured qualification and will face Portugal in the final matchday to determine the winner of Group K.
