FIFA WC 2026: Diaz lifts Colombia past Uzbekistan 3-1 in Group K
Context mode is active. Hover over any highlighted term to see its definition. Click a nested term to go deeper.
Colombia announced their formidable return to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a decisive 3-1 victory over debutants Uzbekistan in Mexico City, a match spectacularly dictated by Liverpool-turned-Bayern Munich sensation Luis Diaz. The dynamic forward not only netted a crucial goal but also orchestrated another, putting Colombia in early control of a competitive Group K and highlighting Uzbekistan's challenging but historic entry onto football's biggest stage. This opening triumph for Colombia, now in their seventh World Cup appearance and aiming to surpass their 2014 quarter-final best, sets a commanding tone for their campaign. For Uzbekistan, the first Central Asian nation ever to compete at this level, Abbosbek Fayzullaev's historic equalizer marked a profound moment despite the eventual loss. The outcome in Mexico City further tightens Group K, especially after Portugal stumbled to a 1-1 draw against DR Congo earlier in the day, placing added pressure on the European powerhouse in upcoming fixtures. With Colombia now topping Group K, the immediate focus shifts to the pivotal second round of matches on June 23, where they will face DR Congo and Portugal will clash with Uzbekistan. These encounters will be crucial in shaping the race for qualification to the newly expanded Round of 32, with the tournament's fresh 48-team format ensuring that every point is fiercely contested across North America's host cities.