James Rodriguez Pulls Strings as Colombia Dominate Group K
Colombia made a thunderous statement in their opener, routing Uzbekistan 3-1 to seize control of Group K.
James Rodriguez Turns Back the Clock
Colombia arrived in North America with something to prove and made that point with immediate force. A crushing 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan announced Nestor Lorenzo’s side as genuine contenders in Group K, with James Rodriguez conducting the midfield orchestra with all the swagger and class of a man who has been here before. El Cafetero are in the building — and they mean business.
James Rodriguez needs no introduction at a World Cup. The man who lit up Brazil 2014 with six goals and a peerless left foot has returned to the biggest stage, and the years appear to have done little to dim his brilliance. Rodriguez set up attacks, dictated tempo and popped up in the right positions all evening against Uzbekistan, reminding millions why he was once the best player on the planet.
DR Congo Stand in the Way of Last 16 Certainty
DR Congo are no pushovers. Their 1-1 draw with Portugal — including Yoane Wissa’s landmark World Cup goal for the Leopards — proved the Central Africans can compete with anyone. A Colombia win in Guadalajara secures a place in the round of 32. Lorenzo’s men know that a clean performance can send them into the knockouts with a game to spare.
Colombia look every bit a tournament team. If Rodriguez stays fit and the strikers keep firing, this squad has the quality to go deep into the knockouts and spring one of the biggest surprises of 2026.
