Colombia tops Portugal, sets up Ghana clash in World Cup knockout stage

Colombia left Miami as the leader of Group K after holding Portugal to a 0-0 draw at Miami Stadium, a result that sent the South American side into the knockout stage with seven points and a meeting with Ghana in Kansas City on July 4. Portugal finished second with five points and will face Croatia in Toronto on July 3.

The match carried the weight of Colombia’s perfect start. The Selección opened by beating Uzbekistan 3-1 on June 18 at Mexico City Stadium, with goals from Daniel Muñoz, Luis Díaz and Jaminton Campaz. Five days later, Colombia defeated Congo DR 1-0 at Guadalajara Stadium, with Muñoz striking in the 76th minute to secure a second straight win and seal progression before the final group match.

Against Portugal, Colombia did not retreat into survival mode. The team matched a side built around Cristiano Ronaldo’s experience and reputation, and the goalless finish was enough to preserve first place. FIFA noted before the match that this was Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance, a detail that underscored the stature of the opponent and the significance of Colombia’s composure in Miami.

Portugal entered the final round with pressure of its own after drawing 1-1 with Congo DR on June 17 at Houston Stadium. That result left the Europeans needing a strong finish to keep control of their path, but the point in Miami was not enough to overtake Colombia. FIFA’s bracket now sends Portugal to Toronto for a July 3 knockout against Croatia, while Colombia stays on a day longer before facing Ghana, a matchup that rewards the team’s first-place finish rather than a narrow escape.