Colombia secured an early spot in the knockout stage on matchday two of Group K. Right-back Daniel Muñoz scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute to make it 1-0 (0-0) against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Earlier, the South Americans, including Bayern star Luis Díaz, were almost thwarted by Congo’s outstanding goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. With six points, Colombia is now guaranteed a place in the round of 32.
Croatia struggled for a long time against underdog Panama in superstar Luka Modrić’s 200th international match. In Toronto, Ante Budimir (54.) put the favorites ahead 1-0 after coming on as a substitute. Panama fought passionately and had big chances to equalize through Michael Murillo and Carlos Harvey (both 68.), but were denied by Croatia’s keeper Dominik Livaković. After their opening defeat to England (2-4), Croatia can now secure a spot in the round of 16 on Saturday against Ghana. Panama is eliminated as the group’s last-place team.
Co-favorite England could not get past a 0-0 draw against Ghana in Group L. Thomas Tuchel’s team missed the chance to secure an early spot in the knockout stage but leads the group with four points. In cold rainy weather in Foxborough, the Three Lions lacked punch against a deep-lying Ghanaian defense. The best chance fell to Nico O’Reilly (86.), whose header hit the crossbar; Harry Kane fired the rebound well over the goal from five meters. On Saturday, England faces Panama, while Ghana plays Croatia.
Portugal celebrated a clear 5-0 win over World Cup debutants Uzbekistan after a disappointing opening draw. Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice (6./39.), Nuno Mendes (17.), an own goal by Abduwachid Nematow (60.), and Rafael Leão (87.) added the other goals. Portugal plays Colombia on Saturday for the group win, while Uzbekistan faces elimination after two losses.
Source: www.zeit.de
