Colombia secured a spot in the World Cup round of 32 after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo on Tuesday.
A deflected second-half strike from Crystal Palace defender Daniel Munoz proved decisive, keeping the South American side's perfect start to the tournament intact.
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Munoz's Decisive Strike
The crucial moment came when Munoz drove inward from the flank, catching DR Congo's defense off guard during a penalty appeal.
His low effort deflected off Steve Kapuadi, wrongfooting goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and finding the net at the near post.
Earlier, Munoz had a goal disallowed for a fractional offside after bundling the ball past the keeper following an initial save.
Colombia also saw two spectacular finishes from forward Luis Diaz ruled out for offside after linesman decisions.
Mpasi's Heroics in Vain
DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi frustrated Colombia's attackers with a series of spectacular saves throughout the match.
He denied Jhon Arias and Johan Mojica early on, then blocked a close-range shot from Diaz.
Mpasi also denied Diaz again early in the second half, with former Wolves midfielder Arias sending the rebound wide.
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DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre adjusted his midfield during a hydration break, slowing Colombia's attacking momentum.
Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki replaced Ngal'ayel Mukau at halftime to bolster the defensive shield.
Colombia's Path Ahead
A draw in the final group stage fixture against Portugal will guarantee Colombia the top spot in the group rankings.
Finishing first would book a matchup in Kansas City, while finishing second leads to a knockout tie in Toronto against England's group runner-up.
The stadium was overwhelmingly dominated by Colombian supporters, who made up over 90 percent of the crowd in vibrant yellow shirts.
Prominent DR Congo fan Michel Kuka Mboladinga attended the match in national colors alongside a bodyguard wearing leopard skin.
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DR Congo created a late opportunity when Nathanael Mbuku forced Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas into a save with a powerful long-range drive.
