Colombia kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan in Group K on Wednesday, inspired by a standout display from Luis Diaz at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The Bayern Munich star was at the heart of Colombia’s attacking play, registering a goal and an assist while also striking the woodwork as Nestor Lorenzo’s side secured all three points before a crowd of 80,824 spectators.
Despite enjoying much of the possession, Colombia had to work hard to break down a determined Uzbek side making its first-ever appearance at the World Cup finals.
The South Americans eventually found the breakthrough five minutes before halftime when Diaz produced a brilliant lofted pass into the penalty area for Daniel Munoz, who met the ball with a superb volley to put Colombia ahead.
Uzbekistan responded impressively and etched their name into World Cup history just before the interval.
Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored his country’s first-ever goal at the tournament after reacting quickest to head home a rebound from Eldor Shomurodov’s saved volley.
Colombia restored their advantage early in the second half through Diaz. The winger drove a shot toward goal that slipped through the hands of goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov, giving the Colombians a 2-1 lead.
Diaz nearly added another when he rattled the post, but Colombia continued to press for a decisive third goal as Uzbekistan searched for another equaliser.
Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Jaminton Campaz rose highest to head home and seal the victory, putting the result beyond doubt.
The win sends Colombia to the top of Group K after Portugal and DR Congo played out a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, giving the South Americans an early advantage in the race for a place in the knockout stages.
