Uzbekistan vs Colombia, FIFA World Cup Match Report: Luis Diaz shines as Colombia beat Uzbekistan to top Group K

Colombia’s Luis Diaz (7) celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal. (AP photo) Luis Diaz marked his World Cup debut in style with a goal and an assist as Colombia opened their 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over debutant Uzbekistan to move top of Group K ahead of Portugal.At the World Cup, after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, the South Americans showed their superior experience and quality to secure the three points in front of 80,824 spectators at the Estadio Azteca. Portugal’s surprise 1-1 draw against DR Congo earlier in the day secured Nestor Lorenzo’s side the opening round of matches as group leaders.

Diaz inspires Colombia to return to the World Cup

Colombia dominated possession from the start and repeatedly tested Fabio Cannavaro’s Uzbek side. Luis Diaz came close to breaking the deadlock in the 33rd minute when he burst through the defense only to see his effort hit the far post.The breakthrough finally came five minutes before halftime. Jefferson Lerma produced a delicate pass through the Uzbek backline and Daniel Munoz timed his drive perfectly before smashing a first-time volley past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov to give Colombia a deserved lead.Munoz, like Diaz, made his first appearance on soccer’s biggest stage and celebrated his first World Cup goal in memorable fashion.

Uzbekistan fight back before Colombia regain control

The World Cup debutants refused to back down and equalized in the 60th minute. Eldor Shomurodov’s volley was spilled by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas and Abbosbek Fayzullaev was quickest to react as he nodded home the rebound to send the Uzbek supporters into celebration.However, the equalizer took just five minutes.A loose throw-in near the half-way line allowed Colombia to launch a quick counter-attack. Gustavo Puerta found Diaz in the area and the Liverpool striker calmly slotted past Yusupov. The goalkeeper got a hand to the shot but was unable to prevent it from crossing the line.Substitute Jaminton Campaz then wrapped up the win deep into stoppage time with Colombia’s third goal.

The order of the K group is taking shape

In Group K 13, the Colombians won over Portugal and DR Congo after a previous 1:1 draw.2014 World Cup quarter-finalists Colombia next face DR Congo in Guadalajara, while Uzbekistan will try to fend off Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in Houston.