Colombia beat Congo Dr to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout phase

Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after registering a stunning win over Congo DR at Guadalajara Stadium. Colombia dominated much of the opening half against DR Congo, creating a series of chances while largely keeping their opponents on the back foot. DR Congo’s first notable attempt came from Edo Kayembe, whose ambitious strike from distance failed to trouble the goalkeeper. Colombia soon took control, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi called into action several times. He produced an impressive save to deny Jhon Arias before Daniel Munoz fired the rebound into the side netting. Munoz later thought he had opened the scoring after converting a loose ball following a saved header, but the effort was ruled out for offside. The Colombian attack continued to test Mpasi, who made further stops against James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and Gustavo Puerta. DR Congo nearly struck before halftime when Arthur Masuaku delivered a dangerous cross that just missed Yoane Wissa, who came close to connecting in front of goal. The pattern continued after the break, with Mpasi once again frustrating Colombia by denying Diaz from close range. Arias picked up the loose ball, but his effort drifted wide through a crowded penalty area. Colombia eventually found the breakthrough when Munoz finished with the help of a deflection after substitute Jhon Cordoba played a key role in the build-up. The goal finally ended DR Congo’s resistance. Diaz later had two goals disallowed for offside, but Colombia remained in control and successfully held off late pressure from their opponents. The victory secured a top-two finish in Group K ahead of a highly anticipated clash with Portugal. Despite the defeat, DR Congo remain in contention for qualification. A win over Uzbekistan in their final group match, combined with favorable results elsewhere, could still see them advance to the next stage.