Colombia meets Congo DR on June 23, 2026, in Group K at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. Colombia is the favorite, but Congo DR has enough athleticism and structure to keep it competitive. Kickoff is set for 10:00 PM ET and 7:00 PM PT.
Match Preview
This is an important Group K fixture with real qualification pressure—Colombia arrived under Néstor Lorenzo, who has kept the team stable and competitive. Congo DR is coached by Sébastien Desabre, whose structured approach helped end a long World Cup drought.
Colombia should dominate possession and create more chances. Their full-backs and midfield runners give them strong attacking width. Congo DR will likely defend in layers and attack through direct transitions.
The altitude and heat in Guadalajara may also matter. The setting could slow the game’s rhythm and reward the team that manages energy better. Colombia’s technical quality should still give them the edge in long possession spells.
Key Players to Watch
Luis Díaz is Colombia’s biggest attacking threat. He brings speed, dribbling, and direct finishing. James Rodríguez remains the main connector in the final third, while Jhon Córdoba or Suárez can finish moves in the box.
Congo DR will depend on Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu to punish the space behind Colombia’s back line. Chancel Mbemba anchors the defense, and Arthur Masuaku adds experience at left-back. If Congo DR scores, those names are likely involved.
Predicted lineups
Head-to-Head Record
This is not a frequent international matchup. World Cup-specific records show no previous head-to-head meetings between Colombia and the DR Congo. That means both sides enter without a direct tournament blueprint against each other.
That lack of history puts more weight on current form. Colombia has greater tournament experience and a more established attacking structure. Congo DR, however, is growing in confidence and arrives with a clear collective identity.
The first goal should matter a lot. Colombia will want to settle the game early. Congo DR will try to drag it into a low-scoring, tense second half.
Prediction & Odds
The market backs Colombia. ESPN lists Colombia around -205, with Congo DR around +700 and the draw at roughly +320. That pricing reflects CColombia’s stronger individual quality and greater control in possession.
Congo DR can still keep this close. Their best route is a disciplined defensive display and quick counters. But Colombia’s wide threat and midfield quality make them the more reliable side.
Prediction: Colombia 2-0 Congo DR.
That score fits the odds, the matchup, and the tactical balance. Colombia should have more control and more shots on target across 90 minutes.
How to Watch
In the USA, the match will air on FOX and FS1, with streaming on FOX One and the FOX Sports App. In the UK, BBC and ITV share World Cup coverage, and this fixture is listed on ITV in the UK schedules. In the Arab world, beIN Sports remains the main regional broadcaster.
The Mexico time slot creates a late-night U.S. window and an early-morning UK slot. That timing should make it accessible for prime-time viewers in the Americas. Fans in MENA should check local beIN schedules near kickoff.
