2026 World Cup: Colombia qualify for Round of 32 as Panama crash out of tournament

Colombia has qualified for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 win over DR Congo in their second Group K match.

The South Americans followed their opening 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan with another three points to move to six and secure a place in the knockout stage with a game to spare.

Colombia has scored four goals and conceded just once in the tournament. The result also left them five points clear of third-placed DR Congo, who can no longer catch the group leaders.

Portugal are second on four points after a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, while Uzbekistan remain bottom without a point.

In Group L, Panama were eliminated after a 1-0 defeat to Croatia, following their opening 1-0 loss to Ghana.

Panama has yet to score and has conceded two goals in the tournament. With England and Ghana on four points and Croatia on three, Panama can no longer reach the knockout stage.

Panama will play for pride against England in their final group match, while Colombia faces Portugal with top spot in Group K on the line.…Read more by Naa Kwaamah Siaw-Marfo