Daniel Muñoz’s 76th-minute goal gave Colombia a win over the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Group K, advancing to the Round of 32.
Published June 24, 2026
Daniel Muñoz secured a 1-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group K, sending Colombia into the last 32 of the World Cup, after goalkeeper Lionel Mpathi threatened to turn the match into a night of frustration.
Muñoz scored the winning goal from the right side of the penalty area in the 76th minute on Tuesday, finally defeating Mpathi, who had repeatedly denied Colombia, with an inspired performance.
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Colombia opened the World Cup with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, dominating the ball and creating numerous chances.
James Rodriguez, playing in his 10th World Cup, equaling the Colombian record held by Fredy Rincon and Carlos Valderrama, pushed Mpathi with a powerful blow in the 11th minute.
The goalkeeper stood firm, repelling attacks from John Arias and winger Luis Diaz, and almost broke the deadlock in the 18th minute, but controlled a chipped pass inside the penalty area, intelligently turned and fired a shot towards goal, which Mpathi saved with his feet.
The African side, riding high after an opening 1-1 draw with Portugal, posed sporadic threats with the efforts of Ed Kayembe, Cedric Bakambu and Yoan Ouissa, but lacked decisiveness.
Colombia had 15 shots by halftime, including six on target, and nine of 10 outfielders attempted shots.
In the stands, the Democratic Republic of Congo was supported by the team’s famous “living statue” fan, Michel Ngcuka Mboradinga. Mboladinga made his World Cup debut after missing the opening game against Portugal due to Ebola quarantine requirements.
Colombia came back strong after the break and in the 51st minute Dias forced another fine save from Mpathi, but the rebound was pulled wide by Arias.
In the 73rd minute, Ouissa almost gave the Democratic Republic of the Congo the lead when his shot was blocked off an assist from Simon Banza, but shortly after that Colombia scored through Muñoz.
Diaz later thought he had doubled his advantage with a finish into the top corner, but his shot was canceled for offside.
Colombia improved to six points from two games and secured a place in the knockout stages ahead of their final group game against Portugal, who beat Uzbekistan 5-0 earlier on Tuesday.
DR Congo remain with one point and will need a result against Uzbekistan to maintain their hopes of qualifying.
