Follow Us on Google
Colombia finished top of Group K after a pulsating 0-0 draw with Portugal in Miami, overcoming a dramatic late VAR decision that denied them victory but not first place in the standings.
Both sides had already secured qualification for the Round of 32 before kick-off, but they served up one of the most entertaining goalless matches of the tournament as they battled for top spot. Colombia ended the group unbeaten, while Portugal progressed as runners-up.
The South Americans nearly snatched all three points in the closing moments when defender Davinson Sánchez powered home a header in the 90th minute. However, celebrations were cut short after the assistant referee flagged for offside, with VAR confirming the decision by the narrowest of margins.
Colombia made a bright start and almost took the lead inside the opening minute when Jhon Córdoba headed over before forcing Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa into an outstanding one-handed save moments later. Costa was called into action repeatedly throughout the contest as Colombia dominated much of the attacking play.
Portugal gradually settled into the game and came close through Bruno Fernandes, whose close-range effort was brilliantly kept out by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
Cristiano Ronaldo, fresh from scoring twice in Portugal’s previous 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, endured a quiet evening and struggled to influence proceedings against Colombia’s organised defence.
The second half continued at a relentless pace, with Richard Ríos and Gustavo Puerta both going close for Colombia before substitute Luis Suárez squandered a glorious opportunity, volleying over from close range. Sánchez then thought he had delivered the decisive moment only for VAR to intervene.
Despite failing to score for the first time in 25 World Cup matches, Colombia finished as deserved group winners after producing 24 attempts on goal their highest tally in a World Cup match since records began in 1966.
James Rodríguez, making a national record 11th World Cup appearance, orchestrated much of Colombia’s attacking play and received a standing ovation when substituted after another influential display.
The result means Colombia will face Ghana in the Round of 32 on Saturday, 4 July, while Portugal take on Croatia on Friday, 3 July, with the Portuguese having one day less to prepare for the knockout encounter.
