Luis Diaz Shines as Colombia Defeat Uzbekistan 3-1 at Estadio Azteca
Colombia began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3–1 victory over debutants Uzbekistan at a packed Estadio Azteca.
The win put Los Cafeteros at the top of Group K after Portugal and DR Congo played out a 1–1 draw earlier.
Colombia dominated possession against Fabio Cannavaro's 'White Wolves'. But itt took them 40 minutes to Crack open the stubborn Uzbek defence.
Midfielder Jefferson Lerma' lofted vertical pass over the defensive line allowed right-back Daniel Munoz to drift inside and fire a superb volley past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov.
Uzbekistan struck back with a historic milestone in the 60th minute as midfielder Abbosbek Fayzullaev nodded the ball into an empty net to record Uzbekistan’s first-ever goal in a World Cup tournament.
Colombia responded four minutes later as Luis Diaz, who drove down the left wing and slotted home to make it 2–1.
In stoppage time, an unmarked Jaminton Campaz collected a cross from the right flank and slammed it home to secure three points.
You voted Luis Díaz @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match! ⚽
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 18, 2026
#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/AJV8PMGIAn
Player of the Match :Luis Diaz (Colombia)
After the match Luis Diaz, Colombia winger said,“Today I’m living out my childhood dream of playing in a World Cup for my national team and for my country. And what could be more beautiful than contributing with a goal and an assist? We’re a very close-knit group, we’ll keep improving game by game, and I’m just very, very happy.”
