Colombia made an impressive return to the FIFA World Cup with a convincing 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Uzbekistan in their opening Group K match. Luis Diaz starred with a goal and an assist as the South American side secured all three points and moved to the top of the group.

The win was even more significant because Portugal had earlier been held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo, allowing Colombia to finish the opening round of matches as Group K leaders.

Colombia control the game from the start

Playing in front of more than 80,000 fans at the Estadio Azteca, Colombia dominated possession and dictated the tempo from the opening whistle. Back at the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament in Qatar, Nestor Lorenzo's team looked confident and composed.

Luis Diaz caused problems throughout the first half. In the 33rd minute, he nearly opened the scoring after breaking through the Uzbek defence, but his shot struck the far post.

Colombia eventually found the breakthrough five minutes before halftime. Jefferson Lerma delivered a clever pass over the defence, and Daniel Munoz timed his run perfectly before firing a first-time volley beyond goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov.

The goal gave Colombia a deserved lead and marked Munoz's first goal at a World Cup in his debut appearance on football's biggest stage.

Uzbekistan respond after the break

Despite being second best for much of the match, Uzbekistan refused to give up. The Central Asian side, making their World Cup debut, showed determination and found an equaliser in the 60th minute.

Eldor Shomurodov struck a volley that Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas failed to hold. Abbosbek Fayzullaev reacted quickest to the loose ball and headed home the rebound, sending the Uzbek supporters into celebration.

For a brief moment, the underdogs looked capable of causing a surprise.

Diaz restores Colombia's advantage

Uzbekistan's joy lasted only five minutes. A misplaced throw-in near midfield allowed Colombia to launch a quick counterattack. Gustavo Puerta found Diaz in space, and the Liverpool forward calmly drilled a low shot towards goal. Although Yusupov got a hand to the effort, he could not stop the ball from crossing the line.

The goal capped an excellent performance from Diaz, who combined creativity, pace and finishing to inspire Colombia's attack.

Campaz seals the victory

Colombia continued to control proceedings after regaining the lead. Uzbekistan pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but Colombia's experience helped them manage the game effectively.

Deep into stoppage time, substitute Jaminton Campaz put the result beyond doubt. He scored Colombia's third goal to complete a comfortable victory and ensure a perfect start to their World Cup campaign.

Colombia take early control of Group K

The victory lifted Colombia above Portugal and DR Congo in the Group K standings after their draw earlier in the day. Colombia, who reached the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup, now sit in a strong position heading into their next match against Democratic Republic of the Congo. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will look to recover when they face Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal in their second group game.

With Diaz leading the way, Colombia delivered a statement performance and reminded everyone why they remain one of South America's strongest teams.