By Angu Lesley
Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon
Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo in their Group K encounter at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico.
After dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities throughout the contest, Los Cafeteros finally found the breakthrough in the 76th minute when defender Daniel Muñoz finished from close range following good work by Juan Fernando Quintero.
The South Americans controlled large spells of the match and repeatedly tested DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who produced an outstanding performance to keep the Leopards in the contest. Colombia also saw several opportunities go begging, while Luis Díaz remained a constant threat in attack.
Despite spending much of the game on the back foot, Sébastien Desabre’s side defended resolutely and nearly frustrated the Colombians for a second consecutive World Cup match after their opening draw against Portugal. However, the African representatives were eventually undone by Muñoz’s decisive strike.
For DR Congo, Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu worked tirelessly upfront but struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Colombian defence.
The victory sends Colombia into the knockout phase with six points from two matches and leaves them needing only a draw against Portugal to secure top spot in Group K.
Meanwhile, DR Congo remain on one point and must now defeat Uzbekistan in their final group game to keep alive hopes of progressing to the Round of 32.
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