Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020

Colombia secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32 after Daniel Munoz scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over DR Congo at Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 23. The result gave Colombia six points from two Group K matches and guaranteed qualification ahead of their final group game against Portugal.

Colombia Finally Break Through

The South American side controlled possession from the opening whistle and created chance after chance, but DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of outstanding saves. James Rodriguez, making his 10th World Cup appearance, tested Mpasi early, while Luis Diaz and Jhon Arias were also denied.

The pressure continued after halftime as Colombia pushed forward in front of a lively crowd. Their breakthrough arrived in the 76th minute when Munoz finished from the right side of the penalty area to finally beat Mpasi.

Qualification Secured

DR Congo threatened on the counter through Yoane Wissa and Cedric Bakambu but lacked a finishing touch. Diaz later had a goal ruled out for offside, though it did not affect the outcome.

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Colombia will now face Portugal in their final group match, while DR Congo must earn a positive result against Uzbekistan to keep their qualification hopes alive.