Colombia and DR Congo will face off in an important Group K encounter at the FIFA World Cup 2026, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position in the race for a place in the knockout stage. The match will be played at Guadalajara Stadium, where Colombia will look to build on their winning start, while DR Congo hope to claim their first victory of the tournament.
Match Preview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Colombia vs DR Congo |
| Tournament | FIFA World Cup 2026™ |
| Stage | Group K – Match 48 |
| Venue | Guadalajara Stadium, Guadalajara |
| Date | 23 June, 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 10:00 PM |
Colombia opened their World Cup campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. After a competitive first half, the South Americans showed their quality in the latter stages of the match, scoring twice after Uzbekistan had equalized. The result gave Colombia three valuable points and placed them in a strong position heading into their second group match.
DR Congo also produced an encouraging performance in their opener against Portugal. Despite entering the tournament as underdogs, they earned a respectable 1-1 draw against one of Europe’s strongest teams. After falling behind early, DR Congo responded well and deservedly found an equalizer in the second half to secure a crucial point.
With Colombia sitting on three points and DR Congo on one, the stakes are high. A Colombian victory would almost certainly secure qualification for the knockout stage, while DR Congo could put themselves in a strong position with a positive result.
Key Battle

One of the most important aspects of this match will be Colombia’s attack against DR Congo’s organized defense. Colombia demonstrated their attacking depth against Uzbekistan, while DR Congo showed discipline and resilience in holding Portugal.
The midfield battle could also be decisive. Colombia’s technical quality and possession-based style will look to control the tempo, while DR Congo may focus on defensive organization and quick counterattacks.
Colombia Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Camilo Vargas |
| RB | Daniel Muñoz |
| CB | Davinson Sánchez |
| CB | Jhon Lucumí |
| LB | Deiver Machado |
| CM | Jefferson Lerma |
| CM | Richard Ríos |
| RW | Jhon Arias |
| AM | James Rodríguez (C) |
| LW | Luis Díaz |
| ST | Jhon Durán |
DR Congo Predicted XI (4-3-3)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Lionel Mpasi |
| RB | Gédéon Kalulu |
| CB | Chancel Mbemba (C) |
| CB | Dylan Batubinsika |
| LB | Arthur Masuaku |
| CM | Samuel Moutoussamy |
| CM | Edo Kayembe |
| CM | Charles Pickel |
| RW | Yoane Wissa |
| ST | Cédric Bakambu |
| LW | Meschack Elia |
Beyond the immediate importance of the result, this match could have a major impact on the final Group K standings. Colombia know that a second consecutive victory would place them in an excellent position to finish at the top of the group and potentially secure qualification with a game to spare. DR Congo, meanwhile, will draw confidence from their spirited performance against Portugal and believe they can challenge another higher-ranked opponent.
The African side showed resilience, determination, and tactical discipline in their opening fixture, qualities they will need once again against Colombia. With both teams possessing pace in attack and motivation to earn valuable points, fans can expect a competitive encounter filled with intensity, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance at Guadalajara Stadium.
Prediction
Colombia enter the match with momentum after their opening victory and possess greater attacking depth. DR Congo are capable of frustrating opponents and showed their quality against Portugal, but Colombia’s creativity and attacking talent may prove decisive.
Prediction: Colombia 2-1 DR Congo
Colombia and DR Congo Previous Match Results:
- Uzbekistan 1-3 Colombia FIFA World Cup 2026
- Portugal Held to Frustrating 1-1 Draw by Resilient DR Congo in Houston
FAQs
1. When is Colombia vs DR Congo World Cup match?
The match will be played on June 24, 2026, at Guadalajara Stadium in Guadalajara.
2. How did Colombia perform in their opening match?
Colombia defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 to begin their World Cup campaign with three points.
3. How did DR Congo perform in their first game?
DR Congo earned a 1-1 draw against Portugal after coming from behind.
4. Who are the key players to watch?
Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez, and Jhon Durán for Colombia, while Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu, and Chancel Mbemba are key players for DR Congo.
5. What is the prediction for Colombia vs DR Congo?
Colombia are slight favorites, with a predicted 2-1 victory over DR Congo.


