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Colombia seal last-16 place with narrow DR Congo win to set up Portugal showdown

Daniel Munoz's deflected 76th-minute finish gave Colombia a 1-0 victory over DR Congo in Group K on Tuesday, securing their place in the World Cup round of 32 with a game to spare before a decisive clash with Portugal.

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Colombia seal last-16 place with narrow DR Congo win to set up Portugal showdown
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Colombia booked their spot in the World Cup round of 32 with a game to spare, edging DR Congo 1-0 in Group K on Tuesday thanks to Daniel Munoz’s deflected finish in the 76th minute. The result moves the South Americans to six points from two matches and sets up a mouth-watering final group game against Portugal.

Colombia dominated possession and fashioned the clearer chances throughout, but were repeatedly frustrated by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who produced a string of fine saves to deny James Rodriguez, Luis Diaz and Jhon Arias.

The deadlock was finally broken when Juan Quintero’s pass released Munoz into the penalty area. The defender’s low shot took a deflection on its way past Mpasi, settling a contest that had threatened to end goalless.

Portugal, who thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 earlier on Tuesday, top Group K on goal difference ahead of Colombia. The two sides will meet in the final round of group fixtures, with top spot — and potentially the more favourable knockout draw — still to be decided.

DR Congo remain on one point and must beat Uzbekistan in their final group game to keep their qualification hopes alive.

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