Colombia defeated the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0 at the Guadalajara stadium on Tuesday, with Daniel Munoz’s second-half strike leaving the Leopards’ World Cup hopes hanging by a thread in Group K.
Munoz scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute, his low shot taking a deflection and creeping in at the near post. Colombia had dominated proceedings in front of a large home-continent crowd, having a goal ruled out for offside on six minutes and seeing Luis Diaz’s well-struck curling effort also chalked off for offside before Munoz’s eventual breakthrough.
The Crystal Palace defender capitalized on a clever pass from Juan Quintero, beating goalkeeper Mpasi for his second goal of the tournament. Colombia, now on six points, have secured their place in the round of 32 and sit atop Group K, two points ahead of Portugal, whom they face in their final group match.
Elsewhere, Croatia moved closer to the knockout stage with a 1-0 win over Panama, substitute Ante Budimir converting Josip Stanisic’s low cross on 54 minutes — a victory that came on Luka Modric’s 200th international appearance. Panama, who created chances but failed to equalize, are eliminated after two defeats.
In Boston, Ghana held England to a goalless draw, with Thomas Partey returning to anchor a midfield that contained England’s creative threats and kept Harry Kane quiet throughout. Carlos Queiroz’s side had a penalty claim turned down by VAR but move level with England on four points, sitting second in the group only on goal difference.
