Colombia chase qualification: DR Congo stand in the way

In the second 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K match, Colombia face DR Congo at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. Both teams left their openers with strong results: Colombia beat debutants Uzbekistan 3-1, while DR Congo went well beyond expectations to draw 1-1 with Portugal and earn the first World Cup point in their history.

DR Congo performed with a clear style against Portugal, keeping the strong European side in check for long spells; Yoane Wissa's goal on the cusp of half-time was a historic moment for a nation that failed to score when it competed as Zaire in 1974. Néstor Lorenzo's Colombia, meanwhile, could pocket a last-32 ticket before facing Portugal if they win. Bayern Munich star Luis Díaz shone with a goal and an assist against Uzbekistan, signalling this could be a productive tournament for him.

The key question is how Lorenzo will seek to break down a DR Congo side that defends deep and is dangerous on the counter. Richard Ríos, a surprise absentee last time out, could be introduced to midfield; otherwise Colombia may name an unchanged team. For DR Congo, Sébastien Desabre may stick with a similar plan; Aaron Wan-Bissaka's one-on-one defending will be tested by Díaz. Wissa will again operate as the lone striker alongside Cedric Bakambu.

According to Sports Illustrated's prediction, Colombia will win 1-0. Historically fond of winning World Cup games against African sides by a single goal, Colombia may again hold the edge in a tight contest.

Probable XIs
Colombia (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Muñoz, Sánchez, Lucumí, Mojica; Ríos, Puerta; Arias, Rodríguez, Díaz, Suárez
DR Congo (5-3-2): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Masuaku; Kayembe, Moutoussamy, Sadiki; Wissa, Bakambu

Source: Sports Illustrated
Image: Sports Illustrated