2026 FIFA World Cup | Group K | Wednesday June 24, 2026
- DR Congo 0-1 Colombia
DR Congo’s hopes of claiming a crucial point at the FIFA World Cup were shattered when Daniel Munoz struck late to hand Colombia a hard-fought 1-0 victory and seal their place in the Round of 32.
For much of Monday night’s Group K clash at Guadalajara Stadium, DR Congo appeared set to frustrate the South Americans thanks to an inspired display from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
The Leopards’ shot stopper produced a series of outstanding saves to keep Colombia at bay and give his side hope of another famous result.
After Edo Kayembe’s early long-range effort drifted wide, Colombia took control. Jhon Arias was denied by Mpasi before Daniel Munoz fired the rebound into the side netting.
Munoz later thought he had scored, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside. James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and Gustavo Puerta all tested Mpasi, who stood firm throughout the first half.
DR Congo nearly snatched the lead before the break when Arthur Masuaku delivered a teasing cross that narrowly missed Yoane Wissa inside the box.
Mpasi continued his heroics after halftime, denying Diaz from close range as Colombia grew increasingly frustrated. But the resistance was finally broken in the 76th minute when substitute Jhon Cordoba held up play brilliantly before laying the ball into Munoz’s path. The defender’s deflected strike found the net to give Colombia the breakthrough they had long sought.
Diaz had two further goals ruled out for offside, but Colombia held on comfortably to secure a second successive victory and book their place in the knockout stage.
The result leaves Colombia top of Group K with six points, while DR Congo remain on one point and must now beat Uzbekistan in their final group game to keep their qualification hopes alive.
“We played with intensity and aggression and stayed true to our style,” said match winner Munoz. “This victory belongs to the entire team and our supporters.”
DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre admitted his side must now go for victory in their final match.
“A draw will not be enough. We need to take risks against Uzbekistan,” he said.
