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Two nations separated by an ocean, connected by nothing resembling a competitive football history, will meet for the very first time on June 23, 2026. Colombia and DR Congo square off in a Group K fixture at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, with kickoff set for 21:00 local time (10:00 PM ET).
Colombia sit on three points after winning their opening match. DR Congo, meanwhile, earned their first-ever World Cup point in their earlier group game.
A group that refuses to be boring
Group K features Colombia, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Portugal.
Colombia came out swinging in their first match, banking a full three points. DR Congo’s earlier draw was historic in its own right. Before this tournament, the Congolese had never earned a single point at a World Cup.
First contact on the pitch
Colombia and DR Congo have never played. Not in a friendly. Not in a tournament. Not ever.
Colombia’s attacking identity is well-documented regardless. Luis Díaz has been the focal point of their offensive system. DR Congo’s strength lies in counter-attacking football, with Cédric Bakambu serving as the primary outlet when they win the ball in transition.
What this match means for both nations
For Colombia, this is about confirming what their opening result suggested. Colombian football has produced memorable World Cup moments over the decades, from Carlos Valderrama’s artistry to James Rodríguez’s Golden Boot in 2014.
For DR Congo, every minute played, every point earned, every goal scored writes new history for a footballing nation that has produced extraordinary talent but rarely had the platform to showcase it on the biggest stage.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico, incorporating an expanded format featuring 48 teams and 12 groups.
Disclosure: This article was edited by Editorial Team. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.
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