Colombia made an impressive start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their opening Group K match at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Backed by a crowd of 80,824 spectators, Néstor Lorenzo’s side combined possession, attacking quality and clinical finishing to overcome a spirited Uzbekistan team. Goals from Daniel Muñoz, Luis Díaz and substitute Jaminton Campaz sealed all three points, while Abbosbek Fayzullaev scored Uzbekistan’s only goal.
While the scoreline reflected Colombia’s superiority, the statistics behind the game further highlighted why the South Americans deserved the victory.
Colombia Dominated Possession and Territory
One of the biggest differences between the two teams was Colombia’s control of the ball. Lorenzo’s men enjoyed 61 per cent possession and completed 445 of their 520 passes, compared to Uzbekistan’s 242 completed passes from 318 attempts.
The South Americans also spent more time in dangerous attacking areas. They recorded 56 final-third entries and 27 touches inside the opposition penalty box, while Uzbekistan managed just five touches in Colombia’s area.
The first half particularly belonged to Colombia. They controlled 72 per cent possession before the break and completed over 300 passes, constantly forcing Uzbekistan onto the defensive.
Better Chances, Better Finishing
Although Uzbekistan remained competitive throughout the match, Colombia created far more dangerous opportunities.
The South Americans attempted 15 shots compared to Uzbekistan’s eight and generated an expected goals (xG) figure of 1.61 against their opponents’ 1.14.
More importantly, Colombia created four big chances during the game, while Uzbekistan managed only one.
Ten of Colombia’s 15 shots came from inside the penalty area, showing their ability to penetrate Uzbekistan’s defence. In contrast, Uzbekistan produced only four efforts from inside the box.
The difference in finishing proved decisive. Colombia converted three of their four big chances, while Uzbekistan could not make the most of their limited opportunities.
Uzbekistan’s Brief Fightback
Fabio Cannavaro’s side showed plenty of character after the interval.
After trailing 1-0 at half-time following Daniel Muñoz’s 41st-minute opener, Uzbekistan improved significantly in the second half. They struck the woodwork twice and were rewarded in the 61st minute when Abbosbek Fayzullaev equalised with their first shot on target.
For a brief period, momentum appeared to be shifting.
However, Colombia responded like an experienced World Cup side. Just five minutes after conceding, Luis Díaz restored the lead with a composed finish following excellent work from Gustavo Puerta.
The quick response effectively ended Uzbekistan’s momentum and allowed Colombia to regain control.
Luis Díaz Delivered When It Mattered
Bayern Munich winger Luis Díaz was undoubtedly the star of the match.
The Colombian forward received an 8.5 Sofascore rating after producing both a goal and an assist.
Díaz supplied the pass for Muñoz’s opening goal before scoring the crucial second goal that put Colombia back in front after Uzbekistan’s equaliser.
His overall contribution went beyond goals.
The winger completed 19 of his 24 passes, created one big chance, delivered two key passes, won eight duels and drew five fouls. He also recorded a team-high expected assists (xA) figure of 0.65 and carried the ball nearly 180 metres throughout the contest.
His performance combined creativity, direct running and end product, making him the clear standout player on the pitch.
Strong Support Cast
While Díaz grabbed the headlines, several teammates also played key roles in the victory.
Daniel Muñoz not only opened the scoring but also completed 33 of his 39 passes and registered three interceptions from right-back.
Substitute Jaminton Campaz made a major impact after coming on. He scored Colombia’s third goal deep into stoppage time and earned a 7.7 match rating.
In midfield, Jefferson Lerma completed 61 passes and added five ball recoveries, helping Colombia maintain control in key moments.
At the back, Davinson Sánchez and Jhon Lucumí combined for 142 accurate passes, providing a solid foundation for Colombia’s build-up play.
Defensive Efficiency Made the Difference
Although Uzbekistan won more aerial duels and enjoyed greater success in one-on-one dribbles, Colombia’s defensive structure remained organised.
Uzbekistan were forced into making 26 clearances as they spent long periods defending. The Central Asian side also committed costly mistakes, including an error that directly contributed to a Colombian goal.
Goalkeeping statistics further highlighted the gap between both teams. Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas recorded a positive goals-prevented figure despite being beaten once, while Uzbekistan finished with a negative goals-prevented rating of minus 1.70.
A Statement Victory
The final scoreline reflected Colombia’s overall dominance.
They controlled possession, created more chances, completed more passes and showed greater composure in front of goal.
While Uzbekistan produced encouraging moments, especially during their second-half spell, Colombia consistently looked the more dangerous side and deserved their 3-1 victory.
With Luis Díaz leading the attack and the team showing balance across all areas of the pitch, Colombia have sent an early warning to the rest of Group K that they could be one of the teams to watch at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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