Colombia launched their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Wednesday. Star winger Luis Diaz was instrumental, scoring one goal and setting up another, as Daniel Munoz and Jaminton Campaz also found the net for Colombia.

Uzbekistan, making their first appearance in the FIFA World Cup, showcased discipline and resilience for significant periods of the match, guided by Italian coach Fabio Cannavaro. However, Colombia's superior quality ultimately prevailed in front of a vibrant crowd of over 80,000 spectators.

The match saw early chances for Colombia through Jhon Arias and James Rodriguez, but Uzbekistan maintained a deep defensive shape, looking to capitalize on any errors. Bekhruz Karimov came close to scoring for Uzbekistan before Jhon Lucumi intervened. Luis Diaz struck the post in the first half, and later, his challenge on Abdukodir Khusanov led to the defender also taking out a pitchside cameraman.

Colombia broke the deadlock in the 40th minute. Following a broken attack, Luis Diaz found Daniel Munoz with a precise pass, who calmly finished for his third international goal. The goal was met with an eruption of cheers from the large Colombian fanbase, transforming the atmosphere of the Estadio Azteca.

Uzbekistan emerged revitalized in the second half and managed to score their historic maiden World Cup goal in the 60th minute. Dostonbek Khamdamov set up Eldor Shomurodov, whose shot was parried by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas. Abbosbek Fayzullaev was quickest to react, nodding in the rebound from close range to level the score.

However, Uzbekistan's celebration was short-lived. Just five minutes later, Gustavo Puerta provided the assist for Luis Diaz, who restored Colombia's lead with a well-placed shot across the goal. The crowd responded with fervent chants of "Lucho, Lucho" in recognition of the Liverpool forward's impact.

Despite falling behind again, Uzbekistan continued to press for an equalizer in the closing stages. Akmal Mozgovoy shot narrowly wide in stoppage time, and Karimov hit the crossbar from distance, while Azizbek Amonov had a late shot blocked. Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory for Colombia with a third goal in added time.

The win marks a successful return to the World Cup for Colombia, who are the reigning Copa America runners-up. For Uzbekistan, the tournament debut was a learning experience, highlighted by their historic first goal on the world stage.