KABUL (Pajhwok): Colombia and Portugal played out a goalless but highly entertaining draw in Miami on Saturday, with both sides advancing to the last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the top two teams in Group K.
Colombia finished as group winners and will face Ghana in Kansas City on Friday, while Portugal, who needed a win to top the group, will meet Croatia in Toronto on Thursday, according to Al Jazeera.
Backed by a loud, yellow-clad Colombian crowd at Miami Stadium, the South Americans started strongly, with Jhon Córdoba and Jhon Arias both testing Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa in the opening stages.
Colombia dominated large spells of the first half, with Arias repeatedly troubling the Portuguese defence, while Ruben Neves cleared off the line to deny a close-range effort.
Portugal, however, grew into the game and created several chances before the break. Bruno Fernandes was denied from close range by Camilo Vargas, while João Félix missed a difficult volley after a clever control inside the box.
After the interval, Portugal pushed higher up the pitch, but Colombia continued to look more dangerous on the break. Richard Ríos and Gustavo Puerta both went close, while James Rodríguez saw an effort deflected away.
A late Colombian goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review, while Portugal’s Rafael Leão missed a late chance that flashed across goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet evening, with limited service, and managed only one long-range free kick that was comfortably saved.
Despite several late attempts from both sides, neither team found a breakthrough in a match played in humid conditions in front of 64,478 spectators.
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