Muñoz Strike Sends Colombia Into Last 32 at DR Congo's Expense

Colombia beat DR Congo 1–0 at Guadalajara Stadium to clinch a place in the World Cup last 32 with a matchday to spare. Néstor Lorenzo's side dominated a goalless first half as Lionel Mpasi denied Jhon Arias, Daniel Muñoz and Luis Díaz, but substitute Juan Fernando Quintero slipped a pass through to Muñoz on 76 minutes and the full-back's deflected strike finally broke the resistance of the African debutants.

Muñoz was named Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match as Colombia finished with 64% possession, 20 shots and nine on target to DR Congo's seven and one in front of 45,358 fans. Díaz had two late efforts ruled out for offside as the Leopards pressed in stoppage time, and Charles Pickel and Jefferson Lerma were booked on 90+3 and 90+4 minutes. Muñoz had also opened Colombia's campaign against Uzbekistan and becomes the first player to score in successive games at this tournament.

Colombia move onto six points at the top of Group K, two clear of Portugal and five ahead of DR Congo. A draw against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in Miami on 27 June would secure top spot, while DR Congo must beat Uzbekistan in Atlanta on the final matchday and hope other results go their way to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.