Omanghana
Colombia made a winning start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, moving to the top of Group K after the opening round of matches.
Los Cafeteros justified their status as pre-match favorites with a composed display, while Uzbekistan impressed in their first-ever World Cup appearance by scoring a historic goal and competing strongly throughout the contest.
Muñoz Breaks the Deadlock
After a competitive opening period, Colombia found the breakthrough in the 40th minute through right-back Daniel Muñoz.
Making a well-timed run behind the defense, Muñoz connected with an excellent lofted pass from Jhon Arias before producing a superb outside-of-the-boot volley that beat goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov and gave Colombia a deserved lead heading into halftime.
Uzbekistan Make History
The Asian newcomers responded positively after the break and reached a significant milestone in the 60th minute.
Forward Eldor Shomurodov met a cross with an acrobatic volley that goalkeeper Camilo Vargas was unable to fully control. Abbosbek Fayzullaev reacted quickest to the loose ball, heading home to score Uzbekistan’s first-ever goal at a FIFA World Cup and level the match at 1-1.
Colombia Respond Quickly
The equalizer lasted only five minutes before Colombia restored their advantage.
Midfielder Gustavo Puerta won possession in the center of the pitch and quickly released Luis Díaz down the left flank. The winger struck a first-time effort that slipped through Yusupov’s hands and found the far corner, putting Colombia back in front at 2-1.
Campaz Seals Victory in Stoppage Time
As Uzbekistan searched for another equalizer, Colombia capitalized on the spaces left behind.
Deep into stoppage time, substitute Jaminton Campaz finished off a swift counterattack after receiving a pass from Cucho Hernández, calmly slotting home in the 90+9th minute to wrap up a 3-1 victory.
Colombia Dominate Possession
Throughout the match, Colombia controlled proceedings with approximately 67 percent possession and completed 444 accurate passes, limiting Uzbekistan’s opportunities for extended spells despite a brief period of pressure after halftime.
While Uzbekistan showed determination and resilience on their World Cup debut, Colombia’s attacking quality ultimately proved decisive.
Group K Standings
Following Portugal’s surprise 1-1 draw with DR Congo earlier in the day, Colombia’s victory leaves them in first place in Group K after the opening round:
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goal Difference | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colombia | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | +2 | 3 |
| DR Congo | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Portugal | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Uzbekistan | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -2 | 0 |
Looking Ahead
Colombia will seek to strengthen their position at the top of the standings when they face DR Congo in their second group-stage match. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, will look to bounce back and keep their hopes of progressing alive when they take on Portugal in another challenging Group K encounter.
Source: Omanghana
