Colombia commenced their 2026 World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan at the Estadio Azteca. Driven by a sensational performance from forward Luis Diaz, the South Americans seized control of Group K, taking full advantage of Portugal’s unexpected 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo earlier in the day. Despite enjoying the backing of a passionate, predominantly Colombian crowd, Nestor Lorenzo’s side was forced to work diligently against a resilient and highly disciplined Uzbek defensive unit managed by Fabio Cannavaro.

Following a tense opening period characterised by deep defending from the Central Asian side, Colombia finally broke the deadlock in the 41st minute with a moment of sheer brilliance. Diaz drifted inside and delivered a sumptuous, searching pass across the penalty area to Crystal Palace full-back Daniel Munoz, who launched into a spectacular flying volley to guide the ball past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov. However, Uzbekistan responded valiantly after the interval, securing their nation’s first-ever World Cup goal on the hour mark. Eldor Shomurodov’s powerful volley was awkwardly deflected onto the post by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, allowing 22-year-old Abbosbek Fayzullaev to nod the rebound home from close range.

The historic parity was ultimately short-lived, as Colombia re-established their advantage just five minutes later through another decisive intervention from Diaz. Capitalising on an Uzbek turnover in midfield, Gustavo Puerta laid the ball off for the energetic winger, whose subsequent shot squirmed heavily through Yusupov’s grasp and over the line. With Uzbekistan forced to commit bodies forward in search of a late equaliser, substitute Jaminton Campaz sealed the crucial three points in the ninth minute of stoppage time, rising to head in a precise cross from Juan Camilo Hernandez.

Despite the 3-1 scoreline, Colombian head coach Lorenzo admitted his team occasionally struggled with the emotional weight of expectation and a lack of clinical finishing in the final third. Veteran captain James Rodriguez endured a relatively quiet evening against the compact Uzbek block, though the collective experience of the South American squad proved invaluable in navigating the fixture’s difficult moments. The victory places Colombia firmly in the driver’s seat for knockout qualification ahead of their upcoming clash with DR Congo in Guadalajara, whilst Uzbekistan will look to regroup before facing European heavyweights Portugal.