Colombia Scores First World Cup Goal in Debut Match Against Uzbekistan

Colombia achieved a historic milestone by scoring its first goal in World Cup history during its debut match against Uzbekistan at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on June 18, 2026. The goal was scored by Daniel Muñoz, a 30-year-old defender from Crystal Palace, who capitalized on a precise pass from James Rodríguez in the second half. The play began with midfielder John Arias setting up an opportunity that forced Colombian fans and players to raise their intensity. Rodríguez's cross from the right wing found Muñoz, who finished with a well-placed header to open the scoring. The goal sparked celebrations across Colombia, with an estimated 54 million people in the country witnessing the historic moment. The Azteca Stadium erupted as fans recognized the significance of this breakthrough for the Colombian team in its seventh World Cup appearance. Muñoz's goal marked his third strike for the Colombian national team and gave the Tricolor an important early advantage in their tournament campaign.