Colombia vs DR Congo: Group K Showdown at World Cup 2026
Colombia and DR Congo meet in a pivotal World Cup 2026 Group K fixture at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on Friday, June 27. Los Cafeteros opened their campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Japan, while DR Congo held tournament favorites Brazil to a 1-1 draw in a stunning result. With both sides eyeing a place in the knockout rounds, this encounter promises high stakes and no shortage of drama.
Colombia enter as favorites, boasting attacking firepower led by Luis Diaz, who scored twice in the opener. DR Congo, meanwhile, will rely on their organized defense and the clinical finishing of striker Cedric Bakambu to pull off another upset. Head coach Sebastien Desabre has instilled resilience in a squad that has now gone five consecutive World Cup matches without defeat.
Match Preview and Team News
Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo is expected to stick with the 4-3-3 formation that dismantled Japan. Diaz's pace on the left, combined with the creativity of James Rodriguez in midfield, will be key to breaking down DR Congo's compact defensive block. Right-back Daniel Munoz, who provided two assists in the first match, is again likely to be a crucial outlet on the flank.
DR Congo are set to remain unchanged after their disciplined display against Brazil. Defensive midfielder Samuel Moutoussamy will sit in front of a back four that limited the Selecao to just three shots on target. Bakambu, who converted a penalty against Brazil, will lead the line in a 4-2-3-1 system, supported by wide men Theo Bongonda and Meschack Elia.
The Congolese side's physicality and quick transitions caught Brazil off guard, and Colombia will be wary of similar counter-attacking threats. With both teams aiming to control Group K, this clash could define the top spot.
How to Watch Colombia vs DR Congo: TV Channels and Live Stream
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p. m. local time (PDT) / 8:00 p. m. ET on Friday, June 27, 2026, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. At the time of writing, official broadcaster details for this specific fixture are not yet fully confirmed across all territories. World Cup 2026 matches are distributed across a network of rights-holding broadcasters globally, and fans are encouraged to consult their local listings or the official FIFA website for the most up-to-date information.
In many regions, World Cup matches are available on free-to-air channels as part of public service broadcasting agreements. For instance, in the United Kingdom, the BBC and ITV share rights to all 104 games, typically offering free coverage via linear TV and streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. However, it has not been announced which of the two will broadcast Colombia vs DR Congo. In the United States, Fox Sports holds English-language rights, with matches usually airing on Fox or FS1, while Telemundo provides Spanish-language coverage; both networks are available via cable, satellite, and streaming services, though not all content is free. In Colombia, Caracol Television and RCN are the primary World Cup broadcasters, with matches often streamed for free on their digital platforms. In DR Congo, RTNC is the national broadcaster expected to provide coverage, though details remain unconfirmed.
For viewers in other territories, a full list of official rights-holders can be found on FIFA's website. We strongly advise against using unauthorized streams or VPN workarounds to access restricted content. Stay tuned to 90min for updates as broadcaster assignments are finalized.
Key Takeaways
- Colombia can take a giant step toward the Round of 16 with a second straight win, while DR Congo will look to continue their unbeaten streak at the 2026 World Cup.
- The match pits Colombia's explosive attack — led by Luis Diaz — against DR Congo's resolute defense, which kept Brazil at bay.
- Broadcast details are not yet confirmed in many regions, but fans can expect the match to be shown on major free-to-air networks in the UK, Colombia, and possibly DR Congo.
- Kick-off is set for 5 p. m. PDT at the Rose Bowl, with live coverage and streaming options varying by territory.
- Both teams are in strong form, making this a must-watch Group K battle with significant implications for the knockout stage.
Quick Facts
Fixture: Colombia vs DR Congo
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026, Group K
Date: Friday, June 27, 2026
Kick-off: 5:00 p. m. PDT / 8:00 p. m. ET / 1:00 a. m. BST (Saturday)
Venue: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California, USA
Confirmed broadcasters (as of now): Not yet fully announced; check local guides
