Colombia advances to World Cup knockout stage with narrow win over Congo

Colombia has advanced to the knockout stages of the World Cup after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Congo. The decisive goal came from right-back Daniel Muñoz midway through the second half, breaking Congo's resistance. The win ensures Colombia leads Group K with three points, placing them two points ahead of Portugal.

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Colombia got three disallowed goals and really had to work for the victory against Congo.

Colombia started the match assertively, creating several early chances. Daniel Muñoz missed a close-range opportunity, and later had a goal disallowed for offside. James Rodríguez also tested Congo's goalkeeper, Lionel Nzau Mpasi, with a long-range shot. Despite registering five shots on target within the first 20 minutes, Colombia struggled to convert their dominance into goals, with two more goals, including one from Luis Diaz, being ruled out for offside later in the game.

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Right-back Daniel Munoz scored the only goal of the game halfway through the second half in what ended as a 1-0 victory for the Colombians.

Congo, despite being under pressure for much of the match, managed to hold off Colombia's attack for the first half. The African side now faces a challenge to qualify for the next round, needing to be among the best third-placed teams. Their final group stage match is against Uzbekistan.

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With three new points, Colombia is ready for the knockout rounds. They now lead Group K, two points ahead of Portugal.

Colombia's victory sets up a crucial final group match against Portugal. The winner of this encounter will secure first place in Group K, with a draw also being sufficient for Colombia to finish at the top of the group.

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Daniel Muñoz, Jørgen Strand Larsen's teammate at Crystal Palace, had a huge opportunity early in the match.