FIFA World Cup: Colombia Seal Knockout Berth With Narrow Victory Over DR Congo

Guadalajara: Colombia became one of the first teams to book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage after edging past DR Congo 1-0 in a tense Group K encounter on Tuesday.

A solitary goal from defender Daniel Muñoz in the 76th minute proved decisive as Colombia secured their second consecutive victory of the tournament and guaranteed progression to the Round of 32 with one group-stage match still to play.

The South American side dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the contest at Estadio Guadalajara but found DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi in inspired form. Mpasi repeatedly denied Colombia's attackers, including James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz and Jhon Arias, keeping the score level for much of the match.

Colombia's breakthrough eventually arrived in the 76th minute when Juan Quintero's pass found Muñoz, whose effort took a deflection before beating Mpasi and finding the net. The goal was enough to separate the two sides after a match largely controlled by Néstor Lorenzo's men.

Despite Colombia's dominance, DR Congo remained disciplined defensively and threatened sporadically on the counterattack. However, the African side struggled to convert their limited opportunities and were unable to find an equaliser in the closing stages.

The result lifted Colombia to six points from two matches, making them the first team from Group K to secure qualification for the knockout rounds. They will now face Portugal in their final group fixture, with top spot in the group still up for grabs.

For DR Congo, the defeat leaves qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Having earned a draw against Portugal in their opening match, they remain on one point and must now defeat Uzbekistan in their final group game to have a realistic chance of advancing.

The victory continues Colombia's impressive start to the tournament and reinforces their status as one of the early contenders in the expanded 48-team World Cup, while DR Congo face a crucial final-day battle to keep their campaign alive.