Lius Diaz dazzles as Colombia beat World Cup 2026 debutants Uzbekistan 3-1

Luis Diaz starred as Colombia began their FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over debutants Uzbekistan at the Estadio Azteca. The winger scored a crucial goal and set up another, showcasing the quality that saw Colombia return to the tournament after missing the last edition.

Colombia took the lead in the 40th minute when Diaz delivered a precise pass to Daniel Munoz, who found the net for his third international goal. The crowd of over 80,000 erupted, transforming the stadium into a sea of yellow. Despite Uzbekistan's disciplined defense, Colombia's attacking prowess eventually broke through.

Uzbekistan, coached by Italian Fabio Cannavaro, showed resilience and managed to equalize in the 60th minute. Eldor Shomurodov's shot was parried by goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, and Abbosbek Fayzullaev was on hand to score the nation's first-ever World Cup goal. This moment of history, however, was short-lived.

Just five minutes later, Gustavo Puerta set up Diaz, who calmly restored Colombia's lead. Uzbekistan pushed for another equalizer, with several late efforts testing the Colombian defense, but they could not find the net again. Colombia's victory marks a strong start to their World Cup journey.