Daijiworld Media Network – Mexico City
Mexico City, Jun 18: Colombia began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a winning note, securing a comfortable 3–1 victory over debutants Uzbekistan at the Mexico City Stadium on Wednesday (local time).
Despite a determined fightback from Uzbekistan in the second half, Néstor Lorenzo’s side showed their experience and attacking depth to claim all three points in Group K.
Colombia opened the scoring just before half-time through Daniel Muñoz, who finished a well-crafted move initiated by Jefferson Lerma with a precise assist. Luis Díaz earlier came close to scoring but struck the post in the first half.
Uzbekistan responded in the 60th minute when Abbosbek Fayzullaev capitalised on a rebound after Eldor Shomurodov’s effort was not handled cleanly by the Colombian goalkeeper, bringing the match level at 1–1.
However, the equaliser lasted only five minutes. Colombia restored their lead in the 65th minute when Luis Díaz finished clinically from the edge of the box following a swift counter-attack sparked from a loose throw-in.
The South American side sealed the result in the 99th minute when substitute Jaminton Campaz found the net in stoppage time to complete a commanding 3–1 win.
Colombia dominated possession for large parts of the match, while Uzbekistan showed moments of promise in their World Cup debut but were ultimately outclassed by their more experienced opponents.
With Portugal and DR Congo drawing their opening fixture, Colombia move to the top of Group K after the first round of matches.