Colombia 1-0 DR Congo: Muñoz Sends Cafeteros to Knockout Stage at 2026 World Cup

Final Score and Goal

The match ended Colombia 1 – 0 DR Congo . Daniel Muñoz scored the only goal of the game in the 76th minute. Reports describe the strike as a deflected effort from inside the penalty area, which left Mpasi with no chance . The goal was Muñoz's second in as many World Cup matches .

Lionel Mpasi's Record-Tying Saves

Lionel Mpasi was widely credited with keeping DR Congo in the match. Multiple sources report he made eight saves in total . Most notably, he recorded five saves within the first 20 minutes of the match, a feat tied for the most in the opening 20 minutes of a World Cup game since Jamaica's Warren Barrett against Argentina in 1998 .

ESPN's live coverage described him as "a busy man right from kick-off," noting early saves from Jhon Arias at close range . beIN Sports reported that James Rodriguez also forced a superb save from the Le Havre goalkeeper . Mpasi consistently denied efforts from Johan Mojica, Luis Díaz, and Gustavo Puerta during an impressive first-half display . His performance was characterized by multiple outlets as a masterclass and the primary reason Colombia had to wait until the 76th minute to score .

How the Result Affected Group K Standings

With the victory, Colombia moved to the top of Group K on six points, two points clear of Portugal, who had one match remaining . The win guaranteed Colombia's progression to the round of 32 with a match to spare .

DR Congo, meanwhile, remained on one point from two matches. They were left in a must-win situation, needing a victory against Uzbekistan in their final group match to keep their hopes of advancing alive .

Knockout-Stage Qualification Chances

• Colombia: Qualified for the round of 32 after a second successive group-stage victory .
• DR Congo: Needed to defeat Uzbekistan in their final Group K match to have a chance of advancing to the knockout stage .

Where to Find Additional Coverage

• For broader context on the group, ESPN's Group K overview provides details on all four teams, including their tournament records and history .
• Match reports and analysis from beIN Sports, RTE, The Guardian, and The Hindu provide further detail on Muñoz's goal and the match's flow .