Daniel Muñoz delivered the decisive goal in the 76th minute, leading Colombia to a 1-0 triumph over DR Congo in their Group K matchup during the 2026 World Cup. This match unfolded on Tuesday, June 23, at the Akron Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico.
With this win, the Colombian national team boasts 6 points from two matches, securing an early advancement to the round of 16 as the clear leader of their group, according to the official match report.
Colombia Dominates Despite Late Breakthrough
Throughout the 90 minutes, Colombia maintained overwhelming control, yet struggled to break through DR Congo's defense until the latter part of the second half. The statistics speak volumes: a 64% possession rate contrasted with DR Congo's 36%, 19 shots compared to five, and nine on-target attempts with none from their opponents.
Luis Díaz stood out as the offensive powerhouse of the match, nearly opening the scoring twice. Unfortunately, both goals were disallowed; the first due to a preceding foul and the second for offside after a pass from Jefferson Lerma. As reported by Semana Magazine, "Luis Díaz had two goals disallowed in two minutes against DR Congo."
Muñoz Seals the Deal
It was Muñoz, the right-back from England's Crystal Palace, who secured the victory with a precise strike in the 76th minute. This goal marked his second of the tournament, having scored previously against Uzbekistan in the 41st minute of their opening match, where Colombia won 3-1 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with additional goals by Díaz and Jáminton Campaz.
On the disciplinary front, Jhon Lucumí received a yellow card in the 56th minute, the only caution of the match. Despite committing 14 fouls compared to Colombia's 11, DR Congo ended the game without any bookings.
Strategic Substitutions and Group Standings
Colombia made three tactical substitutions: Luis Suárez and James Rodríguez exited the pitch in the 58th minute, making way for Córdoba and Quintero. Shortly after the goal, Ríos replaced Arias to help preserve the lead in the final stretch.
DR Congo also turned to their bench, making five substitutions throughout the match, including Banza replacing Bakambu in the 57th minute and Mbuku coming on for Moutoussamy in the 82nd minute, although these changes did not affect the outcome.
Following this second round of play, Group K's standings have Colombia leading with 6 points and a goal difference of +3. Portugal follows in second with 4 points and a +5 difference, having defeated Uzbekistan 5-0 at Houston's NRG Stadium on the same day. DR Congo remains with 1 point from their 1-1 draw with Portugal in the first round, while Uzbekistan, with 0 points, is effectively out of the tournament.
The group will conclude on Saturday, June 27: Colombia is set to face Portugal at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium, while DR Congo will take on Uzbekistan at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Understanding Group K Dynamics in the 2026 World Cup
How did Colombia perform against DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup?
Colombia defeated DR Congo 1-0, with Daniel Muñoz scoring the only goal in the 76th minute, ensuring their place in the round of 16.
What were the key statistics from Colombia's match against DR Congo?
Colombia dominated possession with 64% compared to DR Congo's 36%, took 19 shots versus five from their opponents, and managed nine shots on target.
What are the standings in Group K after Colombia's victory?
Colombia leads Group K with 6 points and a goal difference of +3, followed by Portugal with 4 points and a +5 difference, DR Congo with 1 point, and Uzbekistan with 0 points.