On Saturday, Colombia emerged as the clear leader of Group K in the 2026 World Cup, while Portugal secured the second spot, and the Democratic Republic of Congo achieved a historic advancement to the round of 16 as the best third-placed team. Unfortunately, Uzbekistan was eliminated without earning any points across their three matches.
The final day of group play featured two concurrent matches. At Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium, Colombia and Portugal played to a 0-0 draw, which was enough for the Colombians to top the group with 7 points.
Meanwhile, in Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the DR Congo overcame an initial deficit against Uzbekistan, winning 3-1 to clinch their place as the best third-placed team with 4 points.
Key Moments and Highlights
One of the most talked-about moments in the Colombia-Portugal match was a header by Davinson Sánchez, disallowed by VAR for offside, which would have given Colombia the lead. Goalkeeper Camilo Vargas also shone with a crucial save against a shot from Bruno Fernandes.
In Atlanta, Eldor Shomurodov put Uzbekistan ahead in the 10th minute, but the DR Congo responded powerfully: Yoane Wissa equalized with a penalty in the 23rd minute, Fiston Mayele scored in the 32nd, and Wissa sealed the victory in the 90th minute. According to CNN Español, this marked Congo's first historic World Cup win and their initial progression to the second round.
Group K Standings and Future Matches
The group standings were almost set after the second matchday. Colombia defeated DR Congo 1-0 on June 23 at Akron Stadium with a goal by Daniel Muñoz in the 76th minute, while Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring twice at the NRG Stadium in Houston.
In their opening match, Colombia triumphed 3-1 over Uzbekistan at Banorte Stadium in Mexico City. Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo in Houston, with Ronaldo scoring in his sixth different World Cup, setting a historic milestone.
The final Group K standings are as follows: Colombia (7 points, GD +3), Portugal (5 points, GD +5), DR Congo (4 points, GD +1), and Uzbekistan (0 points, GD -9).
Looking ahead to the round of 16, Colombia is set to face the second-place team from Group L, likely in Kansas City on July 3. DR Congo, whose advancement as the best third-placed team is still provisional pending the closure of other groups, is expected to encounter England on July 1.
Frequently Asked Questions about Group K in the 2026 World Cup
Who topped Group K in the 2026 World Cup?
Colombia finished as the leader of Group K with 7 points.
Which teams advanced from Group K?
Colombia, Portugal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo advanced from Group K to the next round.
What was significant about DR Congo's performance in Group K?
DR Congo achieved their first-ever World Cup victory and progressed to the second round for the first time.