Colombia vs DR Congo: 2026 FIFA World Cup Preview

Match Overview

Colombia will face DR Congo on 24 June 2026 at 02:00 UTC at Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, Mexico. The fixture is part of the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Source 2.

Team Profiles

Colombia

Colombia enter the tournament in strong recent form and sit among the top 20 FIFA-ranked nations. Key attackers such as Luis Díaz and Jhon Durán are expected to lead the line, supported by a solid defensive structure anchored by players like Davinson Sánchez. Under their current coach, the team favors a balanced 4-2-3-1 system that blends quick transitions with organized pressing.

DR Congo

DR Congo arrive with momentum from recent African qualifiers and hold a mid-tier FIFA ranking. Striker Cédric Bakambu and midfielder Gaël Kakuta provide attacking threat, while the backline is marshaled by experienced defenders such as Chancel Mbemba. Their coach typically deploys a compact 4-3-3, emphasizing counter-attacks and set-piece organization.

Head-to-Head & Stats

The sides have limited prior meetings. Historical encounters show Colombia holding a slight edge, although DR Congo have improved defensively in recent years. Average xG figures indicate Colombia create more quality chances, while both teams average around 1.3 goals scored per game. Colombia perform better away from home compared with DR Congo’s home record.

Predicted Line-ups

Colombia (4-2-3-1): Álvaro Montero; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Wilmar Barrios; Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez, Jhon Durán; Rafael Santos Borré.
DR Congo (4-3-3): Lionel Mpasi; Gédéon Kalulu, Chancel Mbemba, Dylan Batubinsika, Arthur Masuaku; Aaron Tshibola, Gaël Kakuta, Yoane Wissa; Cédric Bakambu, Simon Banza, Fiston Mayele.
Bench options for both sides include attacking substitutes and defensive reinforcements to manage late-game fatigue.

Match Prediction & Betting Odds

Models forecast a narrow Colombia victory, with a predicted scoreline of 2-1. Betting markets list Colombia as favorites at around 1.65, while the draw sits near 3.80. Value may exist on over 2.5 goals given both teams’ attacking intent. Key factors include Colombia’s set-piece efficiency and DR Congo’s counter-attacking speed.

Live Score & Updates

Real-time scores and updates are available on FIFA.com and Sofascore. Official broadcast and streaming options will be announced closer to match day by host broadcasters and FIFA’s digital platforms.

FAQ

1. When and where will Colombia play DR Congo?
   24 June 2026 at 02:00 UTC, Estadio Akron, Guadalajara, Mexico.

2. Is this match part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
   Yes, it is a group-stage fixture.

3. How can I watch the live stream?
   Check FIFA’s official channels and regional broadcasters for streaming links.

4. What are the predicted line-ups for both teams?
   See the Predicted Line-ups section above.

5. Which team is the favorite according to betting markets?
   Colombia are clear favorites.

6. Where can I find detailed head-to-head statistics?
   Visit FootyStats for comprehensive data.