Colombia beat DR Congo 1-0 as Munoz seals World Cup last 32
Colombia beat DR Congo 1-0 on June 23, 2026, as Daniel Munoz's 76th-minute strike sent Lorenzo's side into the FIFA World Cup last 32. The Cafeteros topped Group K at Estadio Guadalajara, where substitute Richard Rios helped Colombia repel DR Congo's late push and secure back-to-back wins.
Key Takeaways
- Daniel Munoz scored the only goal in the 76th minute, his second of the 2026 World Cup, with an assist from Juan Fernando Quintero.
- Lionel Mpasi kept DR Congo alive with a standout display until Munoz's deflected shot wrong-footed him at the near post.
- Colombia qualified for the Round of 32 and lead Group K after back-to-back victories.
- Richard Rios was among Colombia's substitutes as the Cafeteros protected a narrow lead in the second half.
- Colombia face Portugal on June 27 in Miami, while DR Congo meet Uzbekistan in Atlanta the same day.
Who scored Colombia's winner against DR Congo?
Crystal Palace wing-back Daniel Munoz broke the deadlock in the 76th minute, according to BBC Sport. Juan Fernando Quintero's clever pass found Munoz, whose left-footed effort took a deflection off a defender before beating goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi at the near post.
It was Munoz's second goal in as many tournament games. Earlier in the match, he had a strike ruled out for offside after earlier forcing a save and hitting the side-netting on the follow-up, per ESPN's match report.
Why was DR Congo so difficult to break down?
Lionel Mpasi was the standout performer for much of the night. ESPN reported that his impressive work kept DR Congo in the contest until Colombia's relentless pressure finally paid with less than a quarter-hour remaining.
Colombia finished with the better expected-goals numbers at 1.03 to 0.39, according to ESPN, but only Munoz's deflected effort counted. Luis Diaz later had two additional goals chalked off, first for a foul in the buildup and then for offside.
How did Colombia's bench shape the result?
For the second match in a row, Lorenzo's substitutions changed the game. ESPN noted that Quintero replaced James Rodriguez, controlled the tempo, and slipped through the assist for Munoz's first-time finish.
Midfielder Richard Rios was among Colombia's substitutes and offered fresher legs as DR Congo pushed for a late equalizer. Roared on by the vast majority of the crowd in Guadalajara, Colombia held on for a deserved victory, BBC Sport reported.
What is next for both teams in Group K?
Colombia are through to the last 32 and sit top of Group K. DR Congo remain third and must beat Uzbekistan in their final group fixture to keep any knockout hopes alive.
Both sides return on June 27. Colombia face Portugal at Miami Stadium in a group decider, while DR Congo take on Uzbekistan at Atlanta Stadium, ESPN reported. Fans can also watch full match highlights on FOX Sports, with commentary from Tyler Terens and Maurice Edu.
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