Colombia celebrated their return to the World Cup with a 3-1 win against tournament newcomers Uzbekistan at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Having missed out on qualification for the 2022 edition, the South Americans began their Group K campaign in positive fashion and moved to the top of the standings.
The opening goal arrived through Daniel Munoz, who produced an excellent full-stretch volley after meeting a precise forward pass from Luis Diaz. Earlier in the contest, Diaz had already come close to breaking the deadlock when he struck the post.
Uzbekistan respond after the break
Uzbekistan, led by Italian World Cup-winning defender Fabio Cannavaro, remained competitive and found a route back into the match midway through the second half. Their equaliser came in the 60th minute after Camilo Vargas pushed away an effort from Eldor Shomurodov.
The rebound was met by Abbosbek Fayzullaev, who headed home from close range to level the score and raise hopes of a memorable result for the side ranked 50th in the world.
Diaz restores Colombia’s advantage
The parity did not last long as Colombia quickly regained control. Diaz restored his team’s lead when his shot crossed the line despite Uzbekistan goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov getting both hands on the ball.
The goal carried extra significance for the former Liverpool forward, as it marked his first strike at a World Cup. Diaz arrived at the tournament after an impressive debut season with Bayern Munich, where he recorded 15 goals and 14 assists while helping the German club secure a league and cup double.
Late chances at both ends
Uzbekistan continued to search for another equaliser and nearly found one in the closing stages. Akmal Mozgovoy came closest when he curled an effort narrowly wide in the 90th minute.
Instead, Colombia extended their lead deep into the match through substitute Jaminton Campaz, who headed in the third goal to seal the outcome. Even then, Uzbekistan remained dangerous, with Jakhongir Urozov striking the crossbar before the final whistle.
In the group’s other fixture, Portugal and DR Congo shared a 1-1 draw. Uzbekistan will next face Portugal on Tuesday, while Colombia continues their campaign against DR Congo on Wednesday.