Colombia started its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Group K. The South Americans controlled possession for long periods but faced a determined Uzbek side making its historic World Cup debut.
Colombia created the first clear chances and finally broke the deadlock in the 40th minute when Luis Díaz delivered a perfect cross and D. Muñoz finished brilliantly to give his team the lead.
Uzbekistan refused to back down after the break and quickly rewarded its efforts. A. Fayzullaev capitalized on a Colombian mistake in the 60th minute and scored his country’s first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup. The equalizer energized the Uzbeks, but Colombia responded immediately. Just five minutes later, Luis Díaz took matters into his own hands, raced through on goal and restored Colombia’s advantage with a composed finish.
Colombia continued to push forward while Uzbekistan searched for another equalizer. The South Americans eventually sealed the victory deep into stoppage time when J. Campaz headed home the third goal. Luis Díaz inspired his team with a goal and an assist, earning praise as the match’s standout performer. The victory sends Colombia to the top of Group K, while Uzbekistan now turns its attention to the next challenge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
