Colombia secured a 3-1 victory against tournament debutant Uzbekistan in their opening World Cup group stage match at the Mexico City Stadium on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
The match marked the final debut for the 48 participating countries, with both teams struggling to find momentum during the first half-hour.
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Luis Diaz initiated the offensive pressure by striking the inside of the post before delivering a precise cross that allowed Daniel Munoz to deflect the opening goal past goalkeeper Yusupov in the 40th minute.
Uzbekistan, managed by head coach Fabio Cannavaro, equalized in the 60th minute when Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored from a rebound after Eldor Shomodurov's initial shot struck the post against Colombia goalkeeper Vargas.
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Colombia regained the lead five minutes later when a shot from Luis Diaz slipped through the gloves of goalkeeper Yusupov, making the score 2-1.
Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory with a 99th-minute header, while a late strike by Uzbekistan's Kharimov hit the crossbar in the final minute of injury time.
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Colombia now leads Group K following a draw between Portugal and Congo.
