World Cup 2026: Colombia tops Group K thanks to Portugal's draw and DRC's lead

Colombia witnessed its first goalless draw in its World Cup history, which was enough to take the lead in Group K. The match between Colombia and Portugal ended in a 0-0 draw, with Colombia collecting seven points. While Portugal ranked second with five points, after also drawing with the Democratic Republic of the Congo at the start of the tournament. The Democratic Republic of the Congo scored three goals in the second half to beat Uzbekistan 3-1 and occupy third place in the group. Its four points are enough to secure its place in the round of 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams, marking the first time it has reached the playoffs.

We saw 37 shots in the match between Colombia and Portugal, 24 of which were for Portugal, but the best chances were for Colombia, which forced goalkeeper Diego Costa to make six saves. Colombia almost scored the winner in stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a video review. Portugal's best chance came after the half-time break, when Camelio Vargas saved a shot from Bruno Fernandes, while João Felix's shot went over the bar moments later.

When the World Cup draw was announced, all eyes were on the potential quarter-finals on July 11, which could see a clash between the winners of Group J and Group K. With Argentina in Group K, some considered this would be the last chance to see Cristiano Ronaldo take on Lionel Messi. Messi and Argentina did what was expected, with two wins from two matches, ensuring they were top of Group J heading into Saturday night. Portugal had to win on Saturday to top the group, but Ronaldo appeared less effective compared to the match against the Republic of Congo.

Now, with Portugal and Argentina on opposite sides of the draw, the World Cup final on July 19 holds an exciting prospect: a final meeting between football's most famous players.


Yoan Wessa scored twice for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, scoring a penalty in the 68th minute and then adding another goal in stoppage time to secure the win.

Ranking of group K:

1. Colombia: 2 wins, 1 draw, 0 defeats, 7 points
2. Portugal: 1 win, 2 draws, 0 defeats, 5 points
3. Democratic Republic of the Congo: 1 victory, 1 draw, 1 defeat, 4 points
4. Uzbekistan: 0 wins, 0 draws, 3 defeats, 0 points.

Colombia will face the third team from Group L after Ghana lost to Croatia on Saturday. A win over Ghana would likely set up a showdown with Switzerland on July 7 in Vancouver, before a potential match against Argentina on July 11 in Kansas City. Portugal missed out on a rest day by finishing second in the group, and will also play in Canada for the first time. Croatia also beat Panama in Toronto and finished in second place in Group L, as it seeks to reach the semi-finals for the third time in a row.

Yes, the Democratic Republic of the Congo qualified. With a goal difference of +1 and four points, DR Congo are actually the third best team. No other third team has a positive goal difference. Because of the remaining scenarios, we know that Republic of Congo will face England at 12pm EST in Atlanta. Portugal's chances are still good, but after what we've seen from the team over three games, there are still big questions about Portugal's attack. He looked slow and ineffective against teams except Uzbekistan. While Colombia is considered a long shot to win the tournament, with odds of 33-1. But if Argentina are the obstacle, it will be difficult to see how they can continue from there.

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