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Jun 18, 20261
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Colombia Debuts With Hard-Fought Win Over Uzbekistan in 2026 World Cup Opener
Colombia defeated Uzbekistan 1-0 in their group-stage opener of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Estadio Azteca, with Daniel Muñoz scoring the only goal before halftime. Colombia, coached by Néstor Lorenzo and playing for the first time since missing the 2022 edition, relied on a strong first-half performance and a key contribution from Luis Díaz to overcome a resilient Uzbek side making its World Cup debut under Fabio Cannavaro.


Quick Facts
Who
Colombia
What
2026 World Cup group stage match
When
2026-06-18
Where
Estadio Azteca
- 2026 World Cup group stage match
- Colombia defeated Uzbekistan 1-0
- Daniel Muñoz scored the only goal in the 40th minute
- Gustavo Puerta started in midfield ahead of Richard Ríos
- Johan Mojica received an early yellow card
The legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City hosted the closing match of the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, as Colombia defeated Uzbekistan 1-0 in a tightly contested group stage encounter. The match brought together two teams at different stages in their footballing journeys: Colombia, seeking redemption after missing the 2022 World Cup, and Uzbekistan, making their tournament debut under former World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro.
Colombia, managed by Argentine Néstor Lorenzo, entered the match carrying the weight of an unbeaten run spanning over 20 games. That streak included victories against top-tier teams such as Germany, Spain, and Brazil, as well as reaching the 2024 Copa América final and securing qualification by finishing third in the highly competitive South American qualifiers ahead of traditional powers Uruguay and Brazil.
Lorenzo raised eyebrows before kickoff by starting Gustavo Puerta of Racing de Santander in midfield over the more established Richard Ríos, partnering him with Jefferson Lerma. The gamble paid off as Puerta contributed solid defensive work and crisp passing in the early stages. Colombia dominated possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Uzbek defense in the opening minutes. Uzbekistan, led by the lively Abbosbek Fayzullaev, posed an early threat and forced a yellow card on Colombian left-back Johan Mojica in the seventh minute.
The game’s turning point came when Luis Díaz, initially quiet, began to assert himself around the half-hour mark. In the 33rd minute, Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov was booked for a dangerous foul on the Bayern Munich winger. Díaz then struck the post with a powerful curling effort moments later. That pressure finally told in the 40th minute: Díaz delivered a precise cross into the box, and Daniel Muñoz broke free to volley a stunning goal with the outside of his boot, sending Colombia into halftime with a well-deserved lead.
Colombia came out flat in the second half, allowing Uzbekistan to grow into the contest. The Asian side created several chances, with striker Eldor Shomurodov testing the Colombian defense with powerful shots. Colombia held firm, however, and secured a hard-fought victory to open their campaign. The result gives Lorenzo’s side a crucial three points in what promises to be a competitive group.
Why This Matters
Colombia’s hard-fought victory over a resilient Uzbekistan side signals their return as a serious contender in international football after missing the 2022 World Cup. The result gives them a crucial three points in a competitive group, and the performance of players like Luis Díaz and Daniel Muñoz will be closely watched by fans and analysts. For bettors and fantasy owners, Colombia’s defensive solidity and set-piece threat make them a team to track closely in upcoming matches.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireMatch played at Estadio Azteca
Jun 18, 2026
WireJohan Mojica receives a yellow card for a foul on Abbosbek Fayzullaev
Jun 18, 2026
WireAbdukodir Khusanov is booked for a foul on Luis Díaz
Jun 18, 2026
WireDaniel Muñoz scores the opening goal from a Luis Díaz assist
Jun 18, 2026
WireUzbekistan's Eldor Shomurodov tests the Colombian defense with shots
Jun 18, 2026
WireFinal whistle: Colombia 1-0 Uzbekistan