Colombia Edge Past Uzbekistan in World Cup Group Stage Opener

Colombia launched their World Cup campaign with a gritty 1-0 victory over a disciplined Uzbekistan side. The match saw Colombia controlling possession but struggling to unlock a compact Uzbek defense in the first half. The breakthrough arrived early in the second period when James Rodríguez stepped up to a free kick from 25 yards out and curled a magnificent strike into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov with no chance. Uzbekistan responded with renewed energy, and Eldor Shomurodov...