Luis Díaz carries the expectations of the Colombian fans for the second game in the 2026 World Cup. The striker opened the scoring on his debut and should be the main name against DR Congo, this Tuesday (23), at the Akron Stadium, in Guadalajara, in the second round of Group K.
After the goal and good performance in the 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, Díaz arrives with high morale. His speed, dribbling and finishing make him one of the biggest threats in the tournament. Néstor Lorenzo counts on the striker to explore spaces in the opponent’s defense.
Colombia leads the group with three points and can guarantee an early place in the round of 16 with a victory. The coach asked for balance after the emotion of the debut, but recognizes that Díaz’s talent raises the team’s offensive level.
DR Congo focuses on tight marking
DR Congo is coming off a valuable draw against Portugal in the opening game. Yoane Wissa scored the historic goal, and Sébastien Desabre’s team showed defensive solidity with dangerous counterattacks. The mission now is to contain Luis Díaz’s quick attacks.
It is DR Congo’s return to the World Cup after more than 50 years — their last appearance was in 1974 as Zaire. A good result could keep hopes of advancing in the 48-team tournament alive.
Speed versus organization in Group K
Díaz should play on the wing in the Colombian 4-2-3-1, forming an offensive trio with James Rodríguez and Jhon Arias. His ability to unbalance in quick transitions is his main asset. DR Congo, in turn, should adopt a low block or 5-3-2 to try to neutralize it.
Referee Maurizio Mariani commands the confrontation. The Colombian victory practically seals the classification, while DR Congo needs to add to complicate the accounts of Group K, which still has Portugal and Uzbekistan. The Mexican stadium should receive good crowds.