Munoz strike sends Colombia into World Cup Round of 32

Daniel Munoz's 76th-minute strike propelled Colombia into the World Cup Round of 32, overcoming a resilient DR Congo defense that had frustrated their attack for much of the match. The 1-0 victory sealed Colombia's progression with a perfect record from their opening two games.

Colombia dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the game, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi putting in an inspired performance to keep DR Congo in contention. James Rodriguez marked his 10th World Cup appearance by forcing an early save, while Luis Diaz and Jhon Arias also tested Mpasi. Despite registering 15 shots before halftime, Colombia could not find the breakthrough.

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Just because I scored the goal doesn’t mean I’m the hero. I belong to everyone; we’re all in this together. We secured the three points as a team, as Colombia; here, we’re one family.

DR Congo, buoyed by their opening draw, threatened sporadically but lacked the clinical edge. Edo Kayembe, Cedric Bakambu, and Yoane Wissa all had efforts, with Wissa coming closest to an opener before Munoz finally broke the deadlock. The win ensures Colombia will advance to the knockout stage, while DR Congo faces a must-win scenario against Uzbekistan in their final group game.

"Just because I scored the goal doesn’t mean I’m the hero. I belong to everyone; we’re all in this together. We secured the three points as a team, as Colombia; here, we’re one family," Munoz stated after the match. Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo acknowledged the challenge, noting the need to find spaces between the lines against a team that presses and counter-attacks effectively.

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Against a team like that, you have to find the spaces between the lines; if you play too predictably, they press you and hit you on the counter-attack.