Muñoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup knockout stage
TLE DESK: Daniel Muñoz scored the decisive goal as Colombia secured a place in the World Cup knockout stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Congo on Tuesday.
The Crystal Palace full-back struck in the 76th minute, breaking down a resilient Congolese defence after Colombia had been frustrated for much of the match by an outstanding goalkeeping display from Lionel Mpasi.
Muñoz’s left-footed effort from inside the penalty area took a deflection off a defender, leaving Mpasi with no chance and earning the defender his second goal of the tournament. He was later named man of the match.
“We played with intensity and aggression, and we stuck to our style,” Muñoz said. “We earned these three points as a team and for all the fans who came out to support us.”
Congo nearly snatched a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time, but Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas produced two crucial saves, first denying Nathanael Mbuku from long range before keeping out a header from captain Chancel Mbemba moments later.
Colombia coach Néstor Lorenzo said his side deserved the victory despite failing to convert several chances.
“We probably could have scored more goals, but Congo made it difficult and it was tense until the end,” Lorenzo said.
Colombia thought they had extended their lead late on through Luis Díaz, but two goals were ruled out in quick succession — one for a foul and another for offside.
The South Americans now top Group K with six points from two matches, having followed their opening victory over Uzbekistan with another win. Portugal sit second on four points after defeating Uzbekistan 5-0, while Congo remain on one point.
Colombia will secure top spot in the group with at least a draw against Portugal in their final group match on Saturday. Such a result would also guarantee Portugal a place in the knockout rounds.
The match marked another strong performance from Colombia, who are making their return to the World Cup after missing out on qualification for the 2022 tournament. Ranked 11th in the world, Los Cafeteros dominated much of the contest and created numerous opportunities, particularly in the opening stages.
Mpasi proved Congo’s standout performer, producing a series of impressive saves to deny Díaz, Muñoz, James Rodríguez, Johan Mojica and Gustavo Puerta.
Congo coach Sébastien Desabre praised his goalkeeper but acknowledged Colombia’s superiority.
“Our goalkeeper was excellent today, but I’m not surprised,” Desabre said. “We must recognise that Colombia is superior, even though we could have equalised in the end.”
The result leaves Congo needing a positive outcome in their final group match to keep alive any hopes of progressing from their first World Cup appearance in 52 years.
