Colombia secured its ticket to the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, after a 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Guadalajara.
In this competitive group stage clash, the Leopards suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Colombia following a long-balanced encounter. They finally conceded in the 76th minute to a strike from Daniel Muñoz, handing the Colombian national team their second win in as many matches. DR Congo had started the match with strong intent but struggled against a Colombian side that dominated possession and posed a constant offensive threat. Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi stood out with several decisive saves, keeping the opponents at bay for much of the game.
Having previously secured a 1-1 draw against Portugal in their tournament opener, the Congolese pushed hard for an equalizer after falling behind. Samuel Moutoussamy and Yoane Wissa both had clear opportunities late in the game but ultimately failed to find the back of the net. Showing greater clinical efficiency, Colombia did exactly what was necessary to secure the win, becoming the seventh team to qualify for the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup.
Meanwhile, Croatia revived its own hopes in Group L with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama on Tuesday in Toronto. Ante Budimir scored the lone goal of the match in the 54th minute, keeping the Croatians in firm contention for qualification. Despite intense pressure late in the game, Panama was unable to equalize. In this same group, England and Ghana hold the top spots following their 0-0 draw, while Croatia keeps its chances alive ahead of the final matchday. DR Congo will now face Uzbekistan on Saturday, June 27, in a crucial bid to secure a historic qualification for the round of 32.
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