Colombia vs DR Congo today, June 23, 2026, in a crucial Group K clash at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both teams are fighting for early control of the group after contrasting opening results, and this match could prove decisive for knockout-stage qualification in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Colombia sit top of Group K after a confident 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, while DR Congo earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Portugal in their opener. A victory for Colombia would put them in a strong position to secure one of the top two spots, while DR Congo needs a result to keep their historic campaign alive.
Colombia vs DR Congo Match Details
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group K
- Date & Time: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 10:00 PM ET
- Venue: Estadio Akron (Guadalajara Stadium), Zapopan, Mexico
- Referee: Maurizio Mariani (Italy)
Colombia Preview & Team News
Néstor Lorenzo’s side looked sharp in their opening win. They showed good balance, clinical finishing, and control in midfield. With Luis Díaz (now at Bayern Munich) in excellent form and James Rodríguez pulling the strings, Colombia have real attacking quality.
Key Strengths:
- Dangerous wide players and creative midfield
- Solid defensive structure
- Experience in big moments
Team News: Colombia are close to full strength. No major injury concerns reported ahead of this game. Lorenzo is expected to name a similar side to the one that beat Uzbekistan.
Predicted Colombia Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Gustavo Puerta, Richard Ríos; Jhon Arias, James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz; Luis Suárez.
DR Congo Preview & Team News
DR Congo showed resilience and organization against Portugal. They are well-drilled, physical, and dangerous on the counter-attack. Coach Sébastien Desabre will look for the same compact shape and quick transitions that earned them a point against the European giants.
Key Players:
- Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu — the main attacking threats
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Arthur Masuaku — provide width and energy from the flanks
- Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe — experienced center-back pairing
Team News: DR Congo have no major reported injuries. They are expected to stick with a compact 3-5-2 or 4-3-3 setup.
Predicted DR Congo Starting XI (3-5-2):
Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe; Arthur Masuaku, Edo Kayembe, Ngal’ayel Mukau, Samuel Moutoussamy; Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu.
Key Battles to Watch
- Luis Díaz vs DR Congo’s full-backs — Can the Bayern star find space on the left?
- James Rodríguez’s Creativity — His vision and set-piece delivery could be the difference.
- DR Congo’s Counter-attacks — Wissa and Bakambu are dangerous if Colombia push too high.
- Midfield Control — Ríos and Puerta/Lerma must win the battle in the middle of the park.
Match Prediction: Colombia 2-1 DR Congo
Colombia have more technical quality, better squad depth, and home advantage in Mexico. They should control possession and create enough chances to win. However, DR Congo are organized, physical, and capable of scoring on the break — they proved against Portugal that they can frustrate stronger teams.
- Colombia 2-1 DR Congo
A win would give Colombia a strong chance of topping the group.
Venue Spotlight: Estadio Akron, Guadalajara
Estadio Akron (temporarily known as Estadio Guadalajara for the World Cup) is a modern, atmospheric venue with a capacity of around 49,000. It offers excellent sightlines and a passionate Mexican crowd.
June weather in Guadalajara is usually warm in the evening — perfect for an exciting night of football. Expect a lively atmosphere with Colombian and DR Congo supporters creating plenty of noise.
How to Watch Colombia vs DR Congo in the USA & Canada
Television Broadcasts
- English-Language: Live nationwide coverage is broadcast on the FS1 (Fox Sports 1) cable network.
- Spanish-Language: Live over-the-air coverage is available nationwide on Telemundo.
Streaming Options
- FOX One: Stream the English high-definition broadcast directly on FOX One, featuring interactive multiview and real-time stats.
- Fox Sports App: Stream live on the Fox Sports App by logging in with valid pay-TV provider credentials.
- Peacock: Catch the live Spanish-language Telemundo broadcast through a Peacock Premium subscription.
- Live TV Streaming Platforms: Cord-cutters can access the local Telemundo network or the FS1 cable feed via live TV streaming platforms:
Canada Television & Streaming
- TSN+: Canada’s official tournament rights holder will stream the entire match live on the digital TSN+ streaming service, the TSN app, and the official TSN website.
Who will win Colombia vs DR Congo?
Colombia is heavily favored to win against DR Congo, with statistical models giving Los Cafeteros a 66.4% chance of victory.
This is a big opportunity for Colombia to take control of Group K. They have the quality to win, but DR Congo will not make it easy. Expect a competitive, open game with goals at both ends.
