Portugal's chances of reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 received a major boost after Colombia defeated DR Congo 1-0 in Group K on Tuesday. The result secured Colombia's place in the knockout stage and left Portugal in a strong position heading into its final group match.
Colombia made it two wins from two games thanks to a second-half strike from Daniel Muñoz. With six points from two matches, the South American side has already confirmed qualification and currently tops the group standings.
Portugal, meanwhile, recovered from an opening draw against DR Congo with a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan. Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as the Portuguese side climbed to four points and improved its goal difference significantly.
How the Group K table looks
After two rounds of matches, Colombia leads Group K with six points. Portugal sits second with four points, while DR Congo has one point. Uzbekistan remains at the bottom without a point.
Also Read । Cristiano Ronaldo scripts history again, becomes second-oldest scorer in FIFA World Cup history
The standings leave Portugal firmly in control of its qualification destiny ahead of the final group-stage fixture against Colombia.
What Portugal needs to qualify
A draw against Colombia will be enough for Portugal to secure a place in the Round of 32. Reaching five points would guarantee progression regardless of the result in the other group match.
Cristiano Ronaldo! 🇵🇹👑
— World Cup 2026 (@WorldCupMedia) June 23, 2026
“I’M BACK! I’M BACK!!” pic.twitter.com/ERrw6R78EE
A win over Colombia would not only seal qualification but could also hand Portugal top spot in Group K, depending on goal difference and other tiebreakers.
Also Read । Belgium's golden generation is fading away. The 2026 FIFA World Cup shows why
Even if Portugal loses, qualification remains possible. However, Ronaldo's team would then have to depend on results elsewhere and the ranking of third-placed teams under the tournament's expanded 48-team format.
High-stakes clash ahead
Portugal's final group match against Colombia has now become one of the most important fixtures in Group K. While Colombia has already booked its place in the knockout stage, Portugal still needs at least a point to remove any uncertainty.
With Ronaldo leading the attack and qualification within reach, Portugal will be aiming to finish the group stage strongly and carry momentum into the Round of 32.
