Colombia qualifies for World Cup Round of 32 after two straight wins

Colombia has punched its ticket to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Two wins from two matches in Group K were enough to secure a spot in the knockout stage, making them one of the earliest teams to advance in a tournament that’s barely gotten started.

The squad opened its campaign with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan on June 17, then followed it up with a win against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Six points from two games.

How Colombia got here

The Uzbekistan match set the tone. A 3-1 scoreline is the kind of result that announces intent. Then came DR Congo. Another win, another three points. With six points in the bag and one group match still remaining, Colombia’s advancement became a mathematical certainty.

That toughest opponent, Portugal, awaits on June 27.

The bigger picture under Néstor Lorenzo

Coach Néstor Lorenzo has assembled a squad that blends experience with attacking firepower.

Colombia’s World Cup history adds weight to this moment. The team has reached the round of 16 twice before, in 1990 and 2014.

The 2026 format is worth understanding for context. FIFA expanded the tournament from 32 to 48 teams for the first time ever. Groups are now composed of four teams each across 12 groups. The top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams advance, meaning 32 of 48 teams progress from the group stage.

What to watch next

The Portugal match on June 27 is the final group stage match for Colombia. Group K’s other teams, Portugal, DR Congo, and Uzbekistan, are still fighting for their positions. Colombia gets to approach that match already assured of advancement.

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