Follow Us on Google
Colombia launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan in Mexico City, underlining their credentials as one of Group K’s strongest contenders.
After a dominant first-half display, Daniel Muñoz broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, finishing a superb pass from Liverpool winger Luis Díaz to hand Colombia a deserved lead at the interval.
Uzbekistan responded positively after the restart and levelled matters in the 60th minute through Abbosbek Fayzullaev, raising hopes of a historic result for the Central Asian nation in its first-ever World Cup appearance.
However, Colombia quickly regained control. Díaz restored the South Americans’ advantage in the 65th minute before Jáminton Campaz sealed the victory deep into stoppage time with a goal in the 99th minute.
The result rewarded a composed Colombian performance built around the creativity of Díaz and the experience of captain James Rodríguez, as Néstor Lorenzo’s side controlled possession and created the better opportunities throughout the contest.
For Uzbekistan, despite moments of resilience and an encouraging second-half spell, defensive lapses ultimately proved costly against a higher-ranked opponent.
Colombia, ranked 13th in the world, will now turn their attention to the remaining Group K fixtures against Portugal and DR Congo as they pursue a place in the knockout stages. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, will seek their first-ever World Cup victory when they return to action in their next group match.
