World Cup 2026: Colombia beat DR Congo through Daniel Muñoz at Estadio Akron

The win takes Colombia to the top of the group with six points, after their opening 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. DR Congo, who had conceded a 1-1 draw against Portugal in their first match, remain on one point, complicating their chances of qualification against an in-form Colombia side.

The only goal of the match was scored by Colombian defender Daniel Muñoz in the 76th minute, from an assist by Juan Fernando Quintero, who came on in the second half. Colombia dominated territorially, with 64% possession and 19 attempted shots, but the Congolese defence, strengthened by decisive saves from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi Nzau, held firm until the end.

DR Congo, however, lacked attacking efficiency, failing to register a shot on target despite a defensive 5-3-2 setup geared toward counter-attacks. Goalkeeper Mpasi made eight saves to keep the margin down. Colombia, lined up in a 4-3-3 under Nestor Lorenzo, showed tactical control and patience before breaking through the opposing defence.

The match was also marked by several second-half substitutions and two yellow cards for each team, reflecting sustained intensity until the final whistle.

Colombia rely on their tactical balance and attacking leaders

Nestor Lorenzo fielded a 4-3-3 formation combining defensive solidity and creativity in midfield. Goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, well supported in defence by Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí and Johan Mojica, saw his players succeed in containing the opponent’s rare incursions. In midfield, Gustavo Puerta, Jefferson Lerma and Jhon Arias dominated the creative play, with James Rodríguez orchestrating the attack alongside Luis Javier Suárez and Luis Díaz.

Goalscorer Daniel Muñoz, the right-back, stood out going forward with a sharp run followed by a clinical finish. The Colombian coach made effective use of his resources by bringing on Juan Fernando Quintero and adjusting his full-backs, which left the Congolese defence vulnerable late in the match.

DR Congo compact defensively but short of attacking weapons

Sébastien Desabre opted for a 5-3-2 system with Lionel Mpasi Nzau in goal, supported by the Mbemba-Tuanzebe centre-back pairing and full-backs Wan-Bissaka and Masuaku. The midfield of Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe and Ngal’ayel Mukau tried to limit space and provide passing links toward the attack, led by Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa.

Despite that organisation, DR Congo failed to trouble Colombia, lacking shots on target. Goalkeeper Mpasi distinguished himself with his eight saves, preventing a wider margin. The late substitutions, including the introduction of Simon Banza and Moutoussamy, did not change the course of the match.

With four points after two matches, DR Congo must beat Uzbekistan on the final matchday to hope to continue in the competition.