World Cup 2026: Colombia 0-0 Portugal - Davinson Sanchez's late goal ruled out for offside as Colombia finish top of Group K with Portugal runners-up
Colombia secures top spot in Group K
Colombia has secured the top position in Group K of the World Cup 2026 following a 0-0 draw against Portugal in their final group stage match. The result means Colombia will advance to the round of 32 as group winners, while Portugal finishes as runners-up.
The match, held in Miami, saw a late goal from Davinson Sanchez for Colombia disallowed for offside, a decision confirmed by VAR. Replays indicated that Sanchez’s toe was in an offside position. Despite the disallowed goal, the single point was sufficient for Colombia to claim first place in the group.
Portugal, needing a victory to secure the top spot, also had opportunities to score. Rafael Leao had a late chance, poking the ball wide, which could have been a significant blow for Colombia. The game was characterized by an end-to-end flow, with Colombia creating more scoring chances overall.
Key moments and player performances
The match was described as an entertaining goalless draw, marking the first time Colombia has not scored in a World Cup match. Early in the game, Jhon Cordoba sent a header over the bar within seconds of kick-off. Later, Jhon Arias’ effort was cleared near the line by Ruben Neves, preventing an early goal for Colombia.
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo was part of the starting lineup for the match. Ronaldo, who scored two goals in a previous 5-0 victory against Uzbekistan, was looking to maintain his form. He had an effort ruled offside in the 60th minute of the game against Colombia. Ronaldo has scored in six different World Cup campaigns, accumulating 10 goals in the tournament throughout his career.
James Rodriguez of Colombia delivered an influential performance in the final Group K game. His vision and passing accuracy were notable, creating a joint-match high of five chances and leading in passes in the final third with 43. He also contributed defensively, ranking second in total duels with seven and possession won with four. Rodriguez received a significant ovation when substituted, highlighting the appreciation from Colombia fans.
Portugal’s manager, Roberto Martinez, acknowledged that the match was more open than his team would have preferred. He stated that the game against Colombia would help his team make adjustments for the upcoming stages of the World Cup. Colombia’s manager, Nestor Lorenzo, praised his team’s performance, asserting that they deserved to win and created numerous chances, despite lacking a finishing touch.
Looking ahead to the knockout rounds
As Group K winners, Colombia will proceed to face Ghana in the round of 32. This match is scheduled to take place in Kansas City on Saturday, July 4. They will encounter their former manager, Carlos Queiroz, who previously managed Colombia between 2019 and 2020.
Portugal, as group runners-up, will play against Croatia in Toronto on Friday, July 3. There is a potential for Portugal to face Spain in the last 16, should they advance. The draw for the knockout stages could also set up a potential quarterfinal match between Portugal and Argentina, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, if both teams win their respective groups and progress.
The match in Miami was attended by film stars Matt Damon and John Leguizamo, among others. The atmosphere was described as raucous, with Colombia fans showing strong support for their team. The draw ensures both teams continue their journey in the World Cup 2026 tournament.
Source: skysports.com
