Colombia face D.R. Congo on 24/06/2026, 03:00 GMT+0, at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, with Maurizio Mariani from Italy listed as the referee. This is a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match, and Colombia can take a huge step toward the Round of 32 after opening the tournament with a 3:1 win over Uzbekistan.
D.R. Congo also started well in their own way, coming from behind to draw 1:1 with Portugal. That result showed their defensive strength, patience and ability to stay alive in difficult match scripts. This Colombia vs D.R. Congo prediction 2026 gives Colombia the clear edge, but not a free pass. For Colombia vs D.R. Congo match prediction, Colombia vs D.R. Congo betting tips, Colombia vs D.R. Congo prediction today and Colombia vs D.R. Congo odds, the key is whether Colombia can break down a five man defensive line without leaving too much space for Wissa and Bakambu.
Colombia vs D.R. Congo Last Matches
Colombia: Team News
Colombia came through the opener in good shape and have no listed absences for this match. Néstor Lorenzo should keep the main structure that worked against Uzbekistan, with Luis Díaz stretching the left side, James Rodríguez connecting the attack and Luis Suárez giving the front line a central reference. Colombia looked sharp in transition and dangerous when their wide players attacked space early.
The midfield balance is important. Jefferson Lerma gives Colombia physical protection, while Puerta and Arias can help the team move the ball quickly before D.R. Congo settle into their back five. At the back, Sánchez and Lucumí should expect a different test from the first game, because Wissa and Bakambu can run into space rather than hold long possession. Colombia have scored in each of their last five matches and in every match listed here, so the attacking floor looks high. The next step is keeping control without becoming too open.
D.R. Congo: Team News
D.R. Congo also have no listed absences, which is important for a team that relies so much on structure and defensive connection. Sébastien Desabre should stay with a 5 3 2 setup, using Wan Bissaka and Masuaku as wing backs and a strong central defensive line built around Mbemba, Tuanzebe and Kapuadi. That shape can frustrate Colombia if the distances stay tight.
The biggest attacking threat is Yoane Wissa, who scored the equaliser against Portugal and gives D.R. Congo a direct route into the box. Bakambu can help stretch Colombia’s centre backs, while Kayembe, Moutoussamy and Mukau need to protect the middle and win second balls. D.R. Congo’s recent matches are rarely open. Only one of their last five went over 2.5 goals, and the team have conceded just three goals across that run. To take points here, they need a compact first hour and clean counter attacks.
Key Stats and Performance Indicators
Colombia vs D.R. Congo Predicted Lineups
Colombia predicted lineup: Vargas (GK), Munoz (DF), Sanchez (DF), Lucumi (DF), Mojica (DF), Puerta (MF), Lerma (MF), Arias (MF), Rodriguez (FW), Suarez (FW), Diaz (FW).
D.R. Congo predicted lineup: Mpasi Nzau (GK), Wan Bissaka (DF), Mbemba (DF), Tuanzebe (DF), Kapuadi (DF), Masuaku (DF), Mukau (MF), Moutoussamy (MF), Kayembe (MF), Wissa (FW), Bakambu (FW).
Colombia vs D.R. Congo Match Prediction
Colombia are the better side and deserve the favourite role. Their attacking form is strong, they scored three against Uzbekistan, and their wide quality should test D.R. Congo’s back five across the full match. Díaz, James and Suárez give Colombia different routes to goal, while Campaz can add fresh attacking energy later if the game needs another spark.
D.R. Congo are not easy to beat, though. Their draw with Portugal was not just luck. They stayed compact, found a way to score and showed the kind of patience that makes underdogs dangerous at major tournaments. Still, Colombia’s tempo and final third quality should eventually create enough chances. Looking at Colombia vs D.R. Congo odds, the value sits with Colombia to win, but D.R. Congo can keep the match competitive and may find one moment through Wissa or Bakambu. The likely script is a Colombia win with pressure after half time.
Our Prediction: Colombia 2:1 D.R. Congo
You can place your bet on the match – Colombia vs D.R. Congo at bc.game. Colombia to win is the main angle, while Over 2.5 Goals also fits Colombia’s attacking rhythm and the group stage pressure on both teams.
