Colombia finished at the top of Group K after playing out a goalless draw against Portugal in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match. Both teams had already secured qualification for the Round of 32 before kick-off, but the result confirmed Colombia as group winners. Colombia will now face Ghana in the knockout stage, while Portugal, who finished second in the group, will meet Croatia.

Both teams create early chances

The match started at a high tempo, with both sides attacking from the opening whistle. Jhon Arias created Colombia's first chance but headed over the crossbar. Moments later, Rúben Neves dragged a shot wide for Portugal.

Jhon Córdoba then powered past Bruno Fernandes before forcing Diogo Costa into a fine save from inside the penalty area. Soon after, Arias looked certain to score, but Neves cleared his effort off the goal line. Portugal gradually settled into the contest but struggled to break down Colombia's organised defence.

Cristiano Ronaldo tested Camilo Vargas with a long-range free-kick, but the Colombian goalkeeper collected comfortably. Bruno Fernandes also forced Vargas into another good save before Ronaldo's overhead kick was blocked inside the penalty area. João Félix later volleyed over the crossbar as Portugal searched for an opener.

Colombia dominate after the break

Colombia increased the pressure in the second half and created several clear opportunities. Diogo Costa made another excellent save to deny Jefferson Lerma's powerful long-range strike. Richard Ríos, Jhon Arias and Gustavo Puerta also missed chances as Colombia continued to control possession.

James Rodríguez dictated play from midfield and repeatedly created openings for his teammates with accurate passing. Luis Suárez also missed a late opportunity when he fired over the crossbar.

VAR denies Colombia late winner

Colombia thought they had secured all three points in stoppage time. Davinson Sánchez headed home from Juan Fernando Quintero's cross in the 91st minute and celebrated what appeared to be the winning goal.

However, the assistant referee raised the offside flag. A review confirmed that Sánchez had drifted just beyond the last defender before scoring, and the goal was ruled out. Portugal nearly stole victory moments later, but Rafael Leão dragged his shot wide from a tight angle.

Colombia finish top despite missed chances

Although a draw was enough for Colombia to win the group, they will feel disappointed after creating numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match.

The South American side registered two shots inside the opening two minutes, their earliest attempts in a World Cup match this century. They also produced 12 first-half shots, more than Portugal had faced in either of their previous two group matches.

The match remained entertaining despite finishing without goals. The first half produced a combined expected goals (xG) value of 1.38, the highest for any goalless first half at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

James shines as Ronaldo endures quiet night

Cristiano Ronaldo could not add to his tally after scoring twice against Uzbekistan in the previous match. The Portugal captain managed only three shots and 35 touches in his 25th World Cup appearance.

James Rodríguez once again impressed for Colombia. He became the first Colombian player to make 11 World Cup appearances. Although he did not register a goal or assist, he created five chances and completed a match-high 43 passes in the final third.

Colombia now head into the Round of 32 as Group K winners and will face Ghana. Portugal will take on Croatia, with a potential meeting against Spain awaiting if they progress further in the tournament.