World Cup 2026: DR Congo Suffer Narrow Defeat to Colombia

World Cup 2026: DR Congo Suffer Narrow Defeat to Colombia

Sampson Adedeji 

The Democratic Republic of Congo's hopes of securing an early place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a setback after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in their second Group stage match, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Having impressed in their opening fixture with a hard-fought draw against Portugal, the Leopards entered the game full of confidence but found the South Americans a difficult opponent to break down.

DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was the standout performer in the first half, producing a series of brilliant saves to deny Colombia and keep the scoreline level at the break.

The deadlock was eventually broken in the 76th minute when Colombia defender Daniel Muñoz found the back of the net, handing his side a crucial victory and all three points.

Despite pushing for an equaliser in the closing stages, the Leopards were unable to find a way past the Colombian defence as the match ended 1-0 in favour of the South Americans.

The defeat leaves DR Congo with work to do in their final group game against Uzbekistan, where a victory could be enough to secure qualification for the knockout rounds.