Munoz Sends Colombia Into World Cup Knockout Stage With Victory Over DR Congo
Daniel Munoz emerged as Colombia’s hero after scoring the decisive goal in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Guadalajara, securing his side’s place in the World Cup knockout rounds.
The Crystal Palace defender struck in the 76th minute, latching onto a well-weighted pass from Juan Fernando Quintero before seeing his left-footed effort take a deflection and beat goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi at the near post.
Colombia controlled much of the contest and created several opportunities before eventually finding the breakthrough. Munoz nearly opened the scoring within the first four minutes after Jhon Arias’ shot was parried into his path, but the defender could only find the side netting.
The wing-back thought he had given Colombia the lead moments later when he found the back of the net, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside following a tight decision.
Despite dominating possession and chances throughout the first half, Colombia were repeatedly denied by an inspired Mpasi, who produced a series of important saves to keep DR Congo in the game.
Colombia continued to press after the restart and came close through Luis Diaz, who failed to beat Mpasi in a one-on-one situation, while Arias dragged the rebound wide.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the closing stages when Quintero threaded a clever pass into Munoz’s run, allowing the defender to finish with the aid of a slight deflection.
DR Congo pushed forward in search of a late equaliser, but Colombia remained resolute at the back to secure a deserved victory.
The result leaves Colombia at the top of Group K with two wins from two matches, guaranteeing their progression to the last 32. DR Congo sit third in the standings and must defeat Uzbekistan in their final group match to keep their qualification hopes alive.