Match Summary
Colombia booked their place in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo at the Estadio Guadalajara. Daniel Muñoz's deflected second-half strike proved decisive after DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had produced a string of stunning saves to keep the Africans in the contest.
The Crystal Palace right-back cut inside from the right flank in the 76th minute and saw his shot loop cruelly off defender Steve Kapuadi and over the wrong-footed Mpasi. It was Muñoz's second goal in as many games, underlining his growing influence on this Colombian side.
Mpasi Heroics Prove in Vain
For over an hour, the Le Havre goalkeeper looked determined to single-handedly deny the South Americans. He twice denied Luis Díaz from close range and made acrobatic stops to frustrate a Colombia attack that registered 20 attempts on goal.
"The goalkeeper was outstanding tonight. Sometimes you need a bit of fortune to break down such resistance,"Colombia coach Néstor Lorenzo admitted after the match.
Controversy surrounded the goal, with DR Congo players appealing for a penalty at the other end just seconds earlier. But the deflection left Mpasi helpless, and Colombia held on despite two dramatic disallowed goals from Luis Díaz in the dying minutes.
What It Means
The result puts Colombia top of Group K with six points, guaranteeing a top-two finish. They will face Uzbekistan in their final group game with the chance to secure first place. DR Congo, meanwhile, must beat Uzbekistan on Sunday to reach the last 32, with the potential of facing England in the next round if they finish third.
Key Takeaways
- Colombia are through to the World Cup knockout stage for the second straight tournament.
- Daniel Muñoz has emerged as an unlikely scoring hero with two crucial goals.
- Lionel Mpasi's performance will attract transfer interest after his outstanding display.
- DR Congo still control their destiny but face a must-win clash against Uzbekistan.
Quick Facts
Goalscorer: Daniel Muñoz (76')
Venue: Estadio Guadalajara
Colombia's next match: vs Uzbekistan (June 28)
DR Congo's next match: vs Uzbekistan (Sunday)
