Colombia do the job
Two games, two wins. Colombia kept their perfect record at this 2026 World Cup after edging the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0 in the night from Tuesday to Wednesday. Backed by a crowd largely on their side in Zapopan, the Cafeteros controlled the game for long spells without finding a way through the Congo defence. They finally broke the deadlock after the break and booked their place in the round of 16 before their final group game.
Mpasi kept DR Congo alive
The match could have turned very early. From the off, the Colombians found space and kept creating danger. But Lionel Mpasi shut down just about everything that came his way. The Congo goalkeeper made several key saves in the opening 15 minutes, including stops from Luis Diaz and Daniel Munoz, keeping his side in it while the pressure kept coming.
DR Congo tried to break up Colombia’s rhythm, but they struggled to hold on to the ball long enough to test the opposition back line. Chances were few and far between for them, while Colombia kept piling up shots and crosses. Without their keeper, the Leopards would likely have gone in at the break with a far heavier deficit.
on MathODDS
Munoz finally makes the difference
After the restart, the pattern stayed the same. Colombia kept pressing and Mpasi kept holding on, just about. But after enough pressure, Nestor Lorenzo’s men got their reward. In the 76th minute, Daniel Munoz found the breakthrough with a slightly deflected strike that finally beat the Congo keeper.
The Cafeteros even thought they had added to the scoreline moments later, but two goals were then ruled out. It made no difference to Colombia, who held on to their lead until the final whistle despite a late Congo scare in stoppage time.
Thanks to a second straight win, Colombia are through and will head into their final group match against Portugal with top spot in sight. DR Congo, meanwhile, now have to play for their lives on the last day.
Discover more 2026 World Cup news on our website and mathodds app!
in your pocket.
Real-time notifications & alerts
Photo credit: ULISES RUIZ / AFP
Leave a Reply