Daniel Munoz struck the decisive goal as Colombia secured a place in the World Cup knockout stage with a hard-fought victory over Congo….reports London Daily News Desk
Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 with a game to spare after edging Congo 1-0 in a hard-fought Group K encounter at Guadalajara Stadium on Wednesday.
Daniel Munoz scored the decisive goal in the second half as Colombia maintained their perfect start to the tournament with a second consecutive victory, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the group.
The result sends Colombia through to the knockout stage ahead of their final group match against Portugal, while Congo still retain a chance of advancing if they defeat Uzbekistan and other results go in their favour.
Munoz continued his fine form in front of goal, taking his tally to two goals at the tournament, matching the number he scored during the 2024 Copa America campaign.
Congo started brightly, with Edo Kayembe trying his luck from long range, but Colombia soon took control of proceedings and created a series of chances in an entertaining first half.
Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi proved difficult to beat, producing a string of impressive saves to deny Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and Gustavo Puerta. Munoz also thought he had opened the scoring after converting a rebound from a headed effort, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
Congo threatened late in the first half when Arthur Masuaku delivered a dangerous cross that narrowly evaded Yoane Wissa inside the penalty area.
Mpasi continued to frustrate Colombia after the break, making an excellent save to deny Diaz from close range. However, the breakthrough finally arrived when Munoz latched onto clever hold-up play from substitute Jhon Cordoba before firing home a deflected effort.
Diaz had two goals ruled out for offside as Colombia searched for a second, but one goal proved enough as they held off late pressure from Congo to secure all three points.
The victory ensures Colombia advance to the knockout rounds and sets up a highly anticipated final Group K showdown with Portugal.
