FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE updates: Colombia on the attack against DR Congo; England frustrated after Ghana draw; Ronaldo makes history

FIFA World Cup 2026 continues to deliver dramatic moments and intense competition as teams battle for progression into the knockout stages. On a day marked by rain and high stakes, several matches unfolded with significant implications for group standings and player legacies. Among these, the encounter between Colombia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) stood out for its intensity and missed opportunities, while Croatia's victory over Panama secured their place in the next round and celebrated a historic milestone for Luka Modric.

At Estadio Guadalajara, the match between Colombia and DR Congo began under challenging weather conditions. Persistent rainfall affected play, making the surface slippery and reducing visibility. Despite these conditions, both teams displayed determination and skill throughout the first half. Colombia, playing in front of a passionate crowd clad in yellow, controlled the majority of the action, holding approximately 62% of possession during the initial 30 minutes. They registered ten shots compared to just one from DR Congo, showcasing their dominance in terms of ball control and attacking intent. However, neither side managed to convert their chances into goals, leaving the scoreline at 0-0 at halftime.

One of the most notable moments came shortly after kickoff when Colombia’s Daniel Munoz appeared to open the scoring. His effort was initially denied by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who made a spectacular acrobatic save. Munoz quickly followed up, driving the ball into the net before realizing he was offside. The goal was disallowed, marking one of the closest offside calls witnessed in the tournament thus far. This incident highlighted the tension and urgency felt by both teams, eager to secure a crucial victory.

As the match progressed, DR Congo attempted to respond with counterattacks, particularly in the latter part of the first half. Their efforts were thwarted repeatedly by Colombia’s defensive resilience, which kept the visitors' shots limited to just two at halftime. The Colombian defense, composed of committed players such as Gustavo Puerta and Johan Mojica, maintained a solid structure, preventing DR Congo from capitalizing on their limited opportunities. Meanwhile, Colombia continued to press forward, registering 14 total shots, though only six were on target, indicating the difficulty faced by attackers in finding the back of the net amidst the adverse conditions.

In another part of the tournament, Croatia delivered a decisive performance against Panama, securing a 1-0 victory that eliminated the Panamanian team from contention. This result marked a significant achievement for Croatia, as it ensured their advancement to the round of 32. The match also became a memorable occasion for Luka Modric, who reached his 200th international appearance for Croatia. Celebrated with great enthusiasm by his teammates, Modric was honored with special jerseys and a heartfelt tribute from the squad. He was substituted in the 81st minute, allowing him to complete his milestone without further risk of injury, as Croatia maintained their slim lead until the final whistle.

Meanwhile, concerns arose regarding Australia’s Matthew Leckie, whose potential injury might jeopardize his participation in the remainder of the tournament. Reports indicated that the injury could significantly impact his ability to contribute to his team’s campaign, adding an element of uncertainty to Australia’s prospects moving forward.

Looking ahead, the results from these matches will shape the dynamics within their respective groups. For Colombia, a win against DR Congo would propel them to the top of Group K, securing a favorable position for subsequent fixtures. Conversely, DR Congo must find a way to capitalize on their chances to avoid elimination. As the World Cup progresses, each match carries weight, influencing not only immediate outcomes but also long-term strategies for teams aiming to make their mark on the global stage.