Colombia celebrated their return to the FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 triumph over first-time participants Uzbekistan in Mexico City on Wednesday. Luis Diaz was instrumental in the victory, helping the South American side secure an early lead in Group K.
The Liverpool forward played a key role by setting up Colombia’s opening goal before scoring himself, ensuring all three points in an engaging match. This win placed Colombia at the summit of their group after Portugal was held to a draw by Congo DR.
From the start, Colombia appeared threatening, nearly scoring in the 17th minute when Jhon Arias’ shot hit the side netting. Diaz then came close to breaking the deadlock with a curling left-footed effort that struck the post midway through the first half.
Colombia’s persistence paid off five minutes before halftime when Diaz delivered a perfectly timed pass over the Uzbek defense to Daniel Munoz, who skillfully flicked the ball into the net with the outside of his boot, giving Colombia a deserved lead.
Although Uzbekistan spent much of the first half defending, they showed determination after the break and created a historic moment for their nation. The equalizer came on the hour mark following a move involving Eldor Shomurodov and Dostonbek Khamdamov, which ended with Abbosbek Fayzullaev heading home Uzbekistan’s first-ever World Cup goal.
However, the celebrations were brief. Colombia quickly regained control and reclaimed the lead just five minutes later when Diaz fired a low shot that slipped through goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov’s hands and crossed the line, marking Diaz’s first World Cup goal.
As Uzbekistan pressed forward seeking another equalizer, Colombia remained dangerous on the counterattack. The match was sealed deep into stoppage time when substitute Cucho Hernandez won possession on the right flank and delivered a cross that fellow substitute Jaminton Campaz met with a powerful header in the ninth minute of added time, securing a 3-1 victory.
This result highlighted Colombia’s impressive opening display, combining attacking creativity with clinical finishing. For Uzbekistan, despite the loss, Fayzullaev’s goal marked a significant milestone in the country’s football history during their World Cup debut.
