Colombiavs
DR Congo
Group Stage · Wed, Jun 24, 2026 · 03:00 ET · Estadio Guadalajara, Guadalajara
Luis Díaz vs. Yoane Wissa’s directness
Colombia’s left flank hinges on Díaz’s ability to isolate DR Congo’s right-back, likely Grady Diangana. The Liverpool winger’s 1v1 threat contrasts with Wissa’s Bundesliga-proven counterattacking for Les Léopards. When these sides last met in a 2015 friendly, Colombia won 3-1 — but DR Congo’s current squad has eight Europe-based starters.
Houston’s humidity as the wildcard
NRG Stadium’s closed roof traps June heat, favoring Colombia’s possession game over DR Congo’s high-pressing approach. James Rodríguez thrived here in a 2014 friendly vs Nigeria, but DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba knows the conditions from MLS battles with Portland. Expect cramp delays after the 70th minute.
Third-place math starts early
With Italy likely topping Group K, this match could decide who advances as runners-up. Colombia’s 4-1 rout of Paraguay in March qualifiers showed their firepower, while DR Congo held Morocco 1-1 in October. A draw leaves both vulnerable if Italy beat Paraguay. Check real-time scenarios on our /world-cup-2026-standings.
Match details
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Stage: Group Stage
- Venue: Estadio Guadalajara, Guadalajara
- Kickoff: Wed, Jun 24, 2026 · 03:00 ET
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Colombia vs DR Congo being played?+
NRG Stadium, Houston — a 72,220-seat venue with artificial turf and retractable roof, also hosting Germany vs Qatar in Group G.
What’s Colombia’s record against African teams?+
5W-2D-1L, including a 2-1 win over Senegal in 2018. Their only loss was 1-0 to Morocco in 2022.
Has DR Congo ever beaten a South American side?+
No. Their only previous meeting was a 3-0 loss to Uruguay in 1974, back when they competed as Zaire.
Who’s favored to win this match?+
Colombia (FIFA #14) are slight favorites over DR Congo (#67), but the gap narrowed after DR Congo’s 2023 AFCON semifinal run.