Colombia return to the front line of world football, and they do so against one of the tournament's big newcomers. Uzbekistan play the first World Cup in their history after a landmark qualification, and opening against a side of Colombia's pedigree is the most demanding baptism imaginable. Los Cafeteros, drawn in Group K alongside Portugal and DR Congo, start as favourites here and know that three points on opening day is key in a brutal group.
For Uzbekistan, simply reaching the 2026 World Cup is already a sporting and generational success. The White Wolves arrive without the pressure of favourites and with the ambition to prove their qualification was no fluke. Colombia, for their part, come in eager not to repeat past absences and to make the most of a competitive generation. With Portugal lurking in Group K, every point is worth double from matchday one.
Goals and cards
Uzbekistan (1)
Abbosbek Fayzullaev 60'
Colombia (3)
Daniel Muñoz 40'Luis Díaz 65'Jaminton Campaz 90'+9