Colombia booked their place in the FIFA World Cup last 32 after grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo at the Estadio Guadalajara, with Daniel Munoz’s second-half strike proving decisive.
Despite dominating large stretches of the contest and creating numerous chances, the South Americans had to remain patient before eventually finding a way through against a determined DR Congo side inspired by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Colombia controlled possession and repeatedly threatened, finishing the game with 20 attempts on goal, but Mpasi produced an impressive performance between the posts to frustrate their attackers for much of the evening.
The breakthrough finally arrived with just 14 minutes remaining. Daniel Munoz, who has been one of Colombia’s standout performers at the tournament, saw his effort take a deflection before finding the back of the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The goal marked Munoz’s second of the World Cup campaign.
Colombia continued to press after taking the lead but the single goal was enough to seal all three points and guarantee qualification for the knockout rounds while maintaining their position at the top of Group K.
DR Congo may have ended the night empty-handed, but their World Cup hopes remain alive. The Central African side can still advance to the last 32 if they secure victory over Uzbekistan in their final group match on Sunday.
There is also the possibility of a high-profile knockout clash ahead, with DR Congo potentially facing England in the next round if they finish third in the group and England go on to top theirs.
For now, however, Colombia celebrate another important victory as their World Cup journey gathers momentum.
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