Colombia won their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K by defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on June 17 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The match marked Uzbekistan’s first World Cup appearance, with striker Eldor Shomurodov captaining the side and holding the record as their all-time leading scorer with 44 international goals [1, 3].
Colombia’s captain James Rodriguez, 34, started the match, making his third World Cup appearance [1, 3]. He led a starting lineup that included Camilo Vargas, Daniel Munoz, Jhon Lucumi, Gustavo Puerta, Johan Mojica, Davinson Sanchez, Jhon Arias, Jefferson Lerma, Luis Diaz, and Luis Suarez [1, 3]. Uzbekistan fielded Utkir Yusupov, Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Sherzod Nasrullaev, Abdulla Abdullaev, Behruzjon Karimov, Akmal Mozgovoy, Otabek Shukurov, Oston Urunov, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, and Shomurodov in their lineup [1, 3].
Luis Diaz, 29, was a key figure for Colombia, scoring one goal and assisting another, helping restore Colombia’s lead after Uzbekistan equalized [2, 4]. Diaz assisted Daniel Munoz’s goal before scoring himself. "It was a very special moment; I felt an incredible sensation when I went out to warm up. I worked and fought for this. I am living out my childhood dream of playing in a World Cup with my national team, and it’s even better to have contributed a goal and an assist," Diaz said [2].
Diaz had a standout 2025-26 season at Bayern Munich with 26 goals and Bundesliga and German Cup titles, following a 13-goal campaign at Liverpool in 2024-25 [2, 4]. Colombia’s coach Nestor Lorenzo selected Diaz and Luis Suarez to lead the team’s attack [1, 3]. Uzbekistan’s defense featured Abdukodir Khusanov within a five-man backline under coach Fabio Cannavaro [1, 3].
Colombia supporters filled the stadium, cheering loudly throughout the match [2, 4]. This game marked Colombia’s return to the World Cup stage after missing the 2022 tournament in Qatar; their last appearance was in 2018 [2, 4].
Colombia’s victory puts them ahead in Group K as the tournament progresses.
