2026 World Cup Group K: Colombia vs Congo DR Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 23)
- When: Tuesday, June 23, 2026. 11:00 PM ET
- Where: Estadio Akron, Zapopan, Mexico
- How to Watch: FS1
The 2026 World Cup concludes the second round of matches with the fourth matchup in Group K getting underway in Zapozan as Colombia clashes with Congo DR. These two squads will likely be in direct competition for a qualifying spot in the group, meaning that there will be pressure on both nations on MD2.
ALSO SEE: World Cup 2026: Our Experts Share Their World Cup Picks
Colombia Stats & Team News
After being absent from the 2022 tournament, Colombia started its World Cup return with a bang. They scored incredible goals to take down debutants Uzbekistan by a 3-1 score to showcase themselves as a team capable of making a deep run.
Colombia requires one more win to secure a top two finish in Group K, likely competing with Portugal for the top spot. They look to be careful against Congo DR, who stunned the Portuguese with a 1-1 draw, shaking predictions about the Group K standings. Luis Diaz seeks to be active on the attack, while James Rodriguez creates more chances for his teammates to capitalize on.
Likely Lineup:
(4-2-3-1) Vargas (GK); Muñoz, Sánchez, Lucumí, Mojica; Lerma, Puerta; Arias, Rodríguez, Díaz; Suárez
Congo DR Stats & Team News
Congo DR made serious noise in its first World Cup game since 1974. They managed to shut down Portugal’s attack as they secured a stunning 1-1 draw in their group opener. Yoane Wissa had the honor of scoring the country’s first World Cup goal in the historic tie.
The Congolese are now due for another difficult matchup against Colombia, whose offense caught fire in a convincing 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. Facing more aggression on that front, Congo DR’s defense will need to be much tougher as they need Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka to contain the explosive offense of the Colombians.
Likely Lineup:
(5-3-2) Mpasi (GK) Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Wan-Bissaka, Masuaku; Sadiki, Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Bakambu, Wissa
Head-to-Head Stats
- This is the first all-time meeting between Colombia and Congo DR.
- This marks the first competitive meeting between the nations.
Colombia vs. Congo DR World Cup Picks
Both teams are off to great starts in their group, needing wins to finish within the top three of Group K. Congo DR’s defense will be put under pressure to hold off the Colombian attack, while the South American side look to deliver a strong offensive performance with Luis Diaz being the star attacker. It would be safe to believe that Colombia takes this one by a 2-1 score.
