Colombia secures top spot in Group K after draw with Portugal

By Sanjay Menon — 28 June 2026 — 3 min read

Colombia has advanced to the round of 32 as winners of Group K following a goalless draw against Portugal. The result means Portugal finishes as runners-up in the group. The match, played in Miami, saw both teams create opportunities, with Colombia ultimately securing the point needed to top their group.

The South American side will now prepare to face Ghana in Kansas City. This upcoming fixture will see them play against their former manager, Carlos Queiroz, who previously managed Colombia between 2019 and 2020. For Portugal, their second-place finish sets up a match against Croatia in Toronto.

Key moments and player performances

The match featured several notable moments, including a disallowed goal for Colombia. Davinson Sanchez found the back of the net late in the game, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Replays confirmed that a toe was in an offside position, leading to the VAR decision to concur with the on-field call. Portugal also had a late chance to secure a victory, with Rafael Leao poking wide in the final minutes.

Despite the lack of goals, the game was described as an entertaining encounter with both sides having chances. It marked the first time Colombia has not scored in a World Cup match. Among the standout performers was James Rodriguez for Colombia. The 34-year-old midfielder demonstrated his quality, influencing much of his team’s attacking play with precise passes and vision.

Rodriguez created a joint-match high of five chances and also led in passes in the final third with 43. He also contributed defensively, ranking second in total duels with 7 and possession won with 4. His performance earned him a significant ovation from the crowd when he was substituted, highlighting the appreciation Colombia fans have for him.

Manager reactions and knockout stage implications

Portugal boss Roberto Martinez acknowledged that his team played the kind of match Colombia desired, describing it as very open. He noted the importance of the game for making adjustments and preparing for the knockout stages, which he expects to be a different tournament. Martinez also praised Colombia as a top-tier team.

Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating they played a great game and deserved to win. He highlighted the numerous chances created by his side, attributing the goalless draw to a lack of finishing. Lorenzo commended his players for their effort against a strong Portugal team, noting the atmosphere in Miami felt similar to playing in Barranquilla due to the support and heat.

For Portugal, the draw means they will face Croatia in their next match. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, continues to lead the line for Portugal in his sixth World Cup. He has scored two goals in this year’s tournament, making him the only player to score in six different editions of the men’s World Cup. Colombia‘s leadership and experience, particularly from players like Rodriguez, are expected to be crucial as they navigate the knockout rounds.

The draw ensures Colombia‘s progression as group leaders, setting up their match against Ghana.

Source: skysports.com