Luis Diaz shines as Colombia convincingly defeats Uzbekistan in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup

Despite facing significant challenges from the Asian side, Colombia's class and the brilliance of Luis Diaz helped the South American team secure a convincing three points.

The opening minutes were rather slow as both teams started cautiously. Colombia had more possession but struggled against Uzbekistan's well-organized defense. Nevertheless, Luis Diaz stood out in attack, constantly causing trouble on the left flank with his skillful dribbling.

The Bayern Munich star nearly opened the scoring in the 33rd minute when he cleverly beat the offside trap before firing a diagonal shot that hit the post. Colombia's relentless pressure finally paid off in the 41st minute. From a delicate pass by Jefferson Lerma, right-back Daniel Muñoz surged forward unexpectedly and executed a splendid one-touch finish, beating goalkeeper Yusupov to put the South Americans ahead.

In the second half, Uzbekistan showed a marked improvement. The energetic captain Eldor Shomurodov created several dangerous opportunities for the Asian side. In the 60th minute, after a powerful volley from Shomurodov that goalkeeper Camilo Vargas couldn't hold, Abbosbek Fayzullaev rushed in to head home from close range, leveling the score at 1-1.

However, Uzbekistan's joy was short-lived. Just five minutes later, Luis Diaz stepped up at the right moment. Capitalizing on Shomurodov's loss of possession in midfield, Colombia launched a lightning-fast counterattack. Receiving the ball on the left wing, Diaz cut inside with his trademark move and unleashed a world-class right-footed curler into the far corner, putting Colombia ahead 2-1.

After Diaz's goal, Colombia took control of the game, making it difficult for Uzbekistan to threaten their goal. The South Americans dropped deep, waiting for counter-attacking opportunities to finish off their opponents.

As Uzbekistan pushed forward with all their might in stoppage time, Colombia delivered the decisive blow. In the 90+9th minute, Cucho Hernandez fought to keep the ball near the byline and delivered a precise cross for Jaminton Campaz, who rose high to head the ball past Yusupov, sealing a 3-1 victory.

With his outstanding performance and a crucial goal, Luis Diaz once again proved his role as Colombia's talisman. This win gives coach Nestor Lorenzo's side a favorable start to the 2026 World Cup, while also sending a warning to the remaining opponents in Group K about the strength of one of South America's formidable contenders.

Full time. Colombia beats Uzbekistan 3-1.