(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Colombia Edge DR Congo to Secure Place in FIFA World Cup Knockout Stage
Colombia booked their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo in their Group K clash on Tuesday.
A second-half goal from defender Daniel Munoz proved decisive as Colombia claimed all three points in Guadalajara. The win moved the South American side to the top of the group with six points from two matches, putting them in a strong position ahead of their final group game.
Colombia started brightly and controlled much of the early play, creating several scoring opportunities. Daniel Munoz had an early effort ruled out for offside, while veteran playmaker James Rodriguez and winger Luis Diaz both tested DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who produced a series of impressive saves.
Despite Colombia’s attacking pressure, DR Congo remained organized and gradually settled into the contest. The African side limited clear-cut chances and occasionally threatened on the counterattack.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 76th minute when Munoz found the net with a shot that took a deflection, leaving goalkeeper Mpasi with little chance of making a save.
DR Congo pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages and nearly found one through Nathanael Mbuku, but Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas reacted well to preserve his team’s lead.
The result ensures Colombia’s progression to the knockout phase after also winning their opening match against Uzbekistan. They will face Portugal in their final Group K fixture, while DR Congo will take on Uzbekistan as they look to keep their qualification hopes alive.
DR Congo, appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974, still have a chance of advancing depending on results in the final round of group matches.
