Colombia and DR Congo Draw Scoreless in 2026 World Cup Group Stage Match

Colombia and DR Congo played to a goalless draw on June 23, 2026, at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, in their second group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The result extended DR Congo's unbeaten run in the tournament following their historic 1-1 draw against Portugal in their opening fixture, while Colombia, fresh from a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, failed to convert their dominance into goals.

Colombia dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match, recording 16 touches in the opposition penalty area compared to DR Congo's two. However, DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi proved resolute, saving six shots on target as Colombia struggled to break through despite eight attempts overall, most from long range. The first half saw the Colombian side control the tempo before and after the hydration break, with DR Congo gradually settling into a deeper defensive shape.

In the second half, both teams made tactical substitutions to alter the game's dynamic. Colombia brought on experienced playmaker Juan Quintero to replace captain James Rodríguez in the 59th minute, while DR Congo introduced Simon Banza for Cédric Bakambu and midfielder Noah Sadiki for Ngal'ayel Mukau. Luis Díaz had Colombia's clearest chance late in the first half when he found himself one-on-one with Mpasi, but his shot was blocked. DR Congo mounted their best attacking moments through Yoane Wissa and a late header from Bakambu, but neither could find the back of the net.

With this draw, the Group K standings shifted significantly. Portugal remained atop the group with four points and a superior goal difference of +5, level on points with Colombia, who held +2. DR Congo advanced to three points following their second positive result, positioning them third in the group. Colombia's next fixture against Portugal on June 27 in Miami has become crucial for determining the group winner, while DR Congo faces Uzbekistan simultaneously in Atlanta on the same day.

The match was broadcast across multiple networks including Fox Sports, FS1, and Fox One in the United States, with Telemundo providing Spanish-language commentary. In Canada, TSN carried the coverage, while international audiences watched through ITV1 and ITVX in the United Kingdom, and Azteca and ViX in Mexico.