World Cup
2:00 A.MJune 24, 2026
Group stage – 2
Akron Stadium
Referee: Maurizio Mariani, Italy
colombia
DR Congo
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
1.03
Expected Goals (xG)
0.39
Passing by
473 (88%)
Accurate passes
224 (75%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
12
G
Camilo Vargas
7.2
17
d
Johan Mojica
7.3
d
John LucumÃ
56′ rough
23
d
Davinson Sanchez
7.7
d
Daniel Muñoz
76′
11
M
John Arias
7.3
M
Jefferson Lerma
90+4′ rough
14
M
Gustavo Porta
6.9
7
F
Luis Diaz
6.6
25
F
Luis Javier Suarez
6.7
10
F
James Rodriguez (C)
7.0
Substitutes
19
F
Cucho Hernandez
5
M
Kevin Castaño
15
M
Juan Portilla
26
F
Andrés Gómez
8
M
Jorge Carrascal
21
M
Jaminton Campaz
4
d
Santiago Arias
22
d
Deiver Machado
18
d
Willer Company
13
d
Yerry Mina
1
G
David Ospina
24
G
Alvaro Montero
M
Richard Rios
77′ Replaced by J. AriasF
John Córdoba
58′ Replaced by L. SuárezM
Juan Fernando Quintero
76′ 58′ Replaced by J. RodrÃguez
1
G
Lionel suffering
7.3
26
d
Arthur Masuaku
7.2
3
d
Steve Kapuadi
6.3
4
d
Axel Tuanzebe
6.7
22
d
Chancel Mbemba (C)
6.7
2
d
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
6.3
25
M
Edo speaker
6.2
8
M
Samuel Moutoussamy
6.5
6
M
Ngal’ayel Mukau
6.7
20
F
Yoane warned
6.6
17
F
Cedric Bakambu
6.2
World Cup Classification – Group K
Colombia secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo at Estadio Akron, thanks to a header from defender Daniel Muñoz.
This crucial World Cup clash on 24 June 2026 saw Colombia look to cement their place at the top of the group. Meanwhile, DRC looked to build on their previous strong defensive performances.
Colombia dominated the early exchanges with quick passing and high pressure. Midfielder Jhon Arias tested the African defense early on, but his low effort did not have the power to beat the keeper.
The South American side controlled the ball for long periods in the first half. However, DR Congo remained disciplined in their defensive form and limited Colombia to difficult long-range shots.
Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi Nzau has been outstanding for the African nation. He made several key saves to deny Davinson Sanchez and keep the score tied as the first half ended.
At the break, Colombia knew they needed more creativity to break down the stubborn Congolese defence. The match remained well prepared, demanding a tactical change from the South American coaching staff.
The pattern continued in the second half as Colombia pushed forward. Defender Jhon Lucumà received a yellow card in the 56th minute for a hard challenge during a rare Congolese counterattack.
To break the deadlock, Colombia presented the player Juan Fernando Quintero. The experienced midfielder immediately injected quality and urgency into the game, pulling the strings from the center of the pitch.
Finally, the breakthrough came in the 76th minute. Quintero delivered a precise cross into the penalty area, and Muñoz guided the ball home with a powerful header that sparked wild celebrations.
DR Congo tried to respond late on but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Yellow cards for Charles Pickel and Jefferson Lerma marked a period of low tension as Colombia held on to the lead.
Colombia dominated the game with 20 shots in total and an expected goal rating of 1.03. In contrast, DR Congo managed just eight shots, while Mpasi Nzau finished with eight crucial saves.
This vital victory keeps Colombia at the top of their World Cup group with three points. DR Congo must now win their final group game to keep their qualification hopes alive.
