Daniel Muñoz Breaks DR Congo Resistance to Send Colombia into World Cup Knockouts

Colombia are through to the knockout rounds of the World Cup, and they had to work for it. Daniel Muñoz’s second goal in as many games settled a tense encounter against a stubborn DR Congo side, who were inspired by an extraordinary performance from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.

The Breakthrough

For long stretches, it looked like Colombia would be frustrated. DR Congo packed the box and dared Colombia to find a way through. Mpasi, the Le Havre shot-stopper, was equal to everything that came his way, producing a string of saves that had the Colombian bench shaking their heads. But the deadlock was finally broken when Muñoz cut in from the right flank. With half the DR Congo defence appealing for a penalty at the edge of the box, Muñoz let fly. His shot took a decisive deflection off Steve Kapuadi, wrongfooting Mpasi at his near post and rolling into the net. It was a goal born of persistence and a little bit of luck.

Mpasi's Heroics and VAR Drama

Mpasi’s performance deserved a point, but football is rarely fair. After the goal, he was forced to watch from a distance as the linesman twice ruled out finishes from Luis Díaz for offside. The first was a clinical finish after a quick break, the second a stunning volley that would have lit up any World Cup. Both were chalked off, but Colombia held on to secure their second successive win and a place in the last 32. The result means Colombia are all but assured of progress, with a final group match against Portugal to come.

What It Means

Colombia now have a excellent chance to top the group. A draw against Portugal would be enough to secure first place and a tie against a best third-place team in Kansas City. Finish second, and they’ll face a much tougher test against the runner-up in England’s group in Toronto. Either way, Nestor Lorenzo’s side have shown they can grind out results when it matters. With Muñoz in form and Luis Díaz waiting to explode, Colombia are a team no one will want to face in the knockout stages.