Luis Diaz Leads Colombia To Winning Start Against Uzbekistan

Colombia kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan in a Group K encounter played in Mexico City.

The South Americans dominated much of the contest and were rewarded before halftime when defender Daniel Munoz broke the deadlock.

Luis Diaz, who was a constant threat throughout the game, delivered a precise pass into the area, allowing Munoz to produce a fine finish and give Colombia a deserved lead.

Uzbekistan, making their first appearance at the World Cup, refused to back down and returned after the break with renewed determination.

Their efforts paid off in the 60th minute when Abbosbek Fayzullayev headed home from close range after Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas could only parry an earlier attempt.

However, Colombia responded quickly. Just five minutes after the equaliser, Diaz restored his side's advantage with a strike that slipped past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov despite the shot-stopper getting a hand to the ball.

The Asian side continued to search for another equaliser and came close late in the game, but their finishing let them down.

Colombia then put the result beyond doubt deep into stoppage time when substitute Jaminton Campaz headed home from a well-worked move.

The victory sends Colombia to the top of Group K and marks a successful return to the World Cup after missing the previous edition.

For Uzbekistan, despite the defeat, there were encouraging signs as they showed resilience and competitiveness on football's biggest stage.