Muñoz sends Colombia into World Cup knockouts as DR Congo battle bravely

Colombia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo at Estadio Guadalajara, thanks to a decisive second-half strike from Daniel Muñoz.

The South Americans dominated possession and created the better chances throughout the contest, but they were repeatedly frustrated by an inspired performance from DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi before Muñoz finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute.

After a goalless first half in which Colombia registered numerous attempts on goal, coach Néstor Lorenzo's substitutions once again proved decisive.

Juan Fernando Quintero, introduced midway through the second half, immediately influenced proceedings and provided the assist for Muñoz, whose first-time finish finally beat Mpasi and secured Colombia's second consecutive victory of the tournament.

The result continues Colombia’s impressive World Cup campaign.

The Cafeteros are appearing in their seventh FIFA World Cup and are best remembered for reaching the quarter-finals in 2014, their greatest achievement on football’s biggest stage.

Colombia have also enjoyed considerable success in South America, winning the Copa América in 2001 and finishing as runners-up on several occasions.

Renowned stars such as James Rodríguez, Radamel Falcao and Carlos Valderrama have helped establish Colombia as one of CONMEBOL’s most respected football nations.

For DR Congo, despite the defeat, there were many positives to take.

The Leopards demonstrated defensive organization and resilience, building on their impressive 1-1 draw against Portugal earlier in the tournament.

Their only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974 under the name Zaire, making this tournament a historic return to football's biggest stage.

DR Congo remain one of Africa’s most successful national teams, having won the Africa Cup of Nations twice, in 1968 and 1974.

Colombia are guided by Argentine coach Néstor Lorenzo, a former defender who represented Argentina internationally and previously worked as an assistant to José Pékerman during Colombia's successful 2014 World Cup campaign.

Since taking charge in 2022, Lorenzo has transformed Colombia into one of South America’s most consistent sides and led them to the final of the 2024 Copa América.

Meanwhile, DR Congo are coached by French tactician Sébastien Desabre, whose managerial journey has taken him across Africa and Asia.

Since his appointment in 2022, Desabre has revitalized the Leopards, guiding them to a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and restoring belief within the national team setup.

Colombia now prepare for a crucial Group K showdown against Portugal, while DR Congo face Uzbekistan in a must-win encounter as they continue their pursuit of a historic place in the knockout rounds.

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