One goal was all it took. One moment of Colombian quality in a tight, tense affair that had very little margin for error. Daniel Muñoz, the Crystal Palace right-back who has become one of the most consistent performers in this Colombian side, popped up in the 37th minute to give Los Cafeteros a 1-0 win over DR Congo — a victory that sends them into the World Cup last 16 and keeps their tournament dream very much alive.
Muñoz the Match-Winner
It would be unfair to call Muñoz an unlikely hero, because anyone who has watched Colombia closely over the past two years knows just how important he is to Nestor Lorenzo’s system. His driving runs from right-back, his ability to arrive late into the box — this is exactly what Lorenzo sets up to exploit.
The goal was typical of the man: a perfectly-timed run in behind the DR Congo backline, a first-time finish that gave the goalkeeper no chance. It was the kind of goal you draw up on a tactics board and then smile when it actually works on the biggest stage of all.
DR Congo Pushed Hard But Lacked the Final Touch
DR Congo, making their mark as one of African football’s most exciting emerging sides, were not here to make up the numbers. They pressed high, worked hard, and created several decent half-chances in the second half that had the Colombian defence unsettled. Goalkeeper Camilo Vargas had to be alert on more than one occasion, making a crucial save in the 70th minute to keep Colombia’s lead intact.
The Congolese showed real quality in midfield but the final ball consistently let them down — a recurring theme for sides who have the engine but sometimes struggle to convert dominance into goals against organised South American defences.
Colombia Through, Momentum Building
For Colombia, this is exactly the kind of result that can springboard a deep run. They were not beautiful, they were not dominant, but they were ruthlessly effective. Three points in the bag, a clean sheet secured, and an entire nation daring to dream.
James Rodriguez, still clearly the heartbeat of this team even at 34, pulled the strings in the second half as Colombia looked to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. There were flashes of the brilliance that lit up Brazil 2014, and those watching will be hoping he has one more big World Cup performance left in him.
Match facts: Colombia 1-0 DR Congo | 2026 FIFA World Cup Group H | Goal: Muñoz 37’ | Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
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