DR Congo take on Colombia in a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K fixture at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico on Tuesday 23 June 2026. Los Cafeteros face the African qualifiers in a match that could prove pivotal in shaping Group K alongside Portugal.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of football’s premier international tournament and the first to be co-hosted across three nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. Held between 11 June and 19 July 2026, the competition features 48 teams competing in 104 matches across 16 venues, with the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The new 48-team format splits countries into 12 groups of four. The top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed sides advance to a Round of 32. Colombia and DR Congo both enter this tie knowing a win could transform their group-stage outlook.
When is Congo DR vs Colombia?
Congo DR vs Colombia kicks off at 9pm CT (10pm ET, 3am BST on Wednesday 24 June) on Tuesday 23 June 2026. It is the final matchday-two fixture in Group K.
Where is Congo DR vs Colombia being played?
The match takes place at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Guadalajara, Mexico. Home to Liga MX club Chivas, the venue seats around 49,000 and is one of three Mexican stadiums hosting 2026 World Cup matches, alongside Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and Estadio BBVA in Monterrey. The venue is notable for its striking green architecture and natural surroundings.
Key Contenders
Colombia are led by head coach Nestor Lorenzo and built around a core that reached the final of Copa America 2024. Real Madrid forward Luis Diaz, captain James Rodriguez, Jhon Duran, Richard Rios and defender Davinson Sanchez form a strong spine. Colombia remain one of the most respected South American sides and will be expected to top or finish second in the group.
DR Congo qualified via the CAF route and are making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the country still competed as Zaire. Head coach Sebastien Desabre’s Leopards are led by captain Chancel Mbemba, midfielder Aaron Wan-Bissaka and striker Cedric Bakambu. The squad reached the AFCON semi-finals in 2024 and enters the tournament with belief and momentum.
How to Watch
BBC and ITV share UK rights with live streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In the United States, FOX provides English-language coverage and Telemundo broadcasts in Spanish. Caracol and RCN hold rights in Colombia, while FIFA+ offers global highlights. In Mexico, Televisa, TV Azteca and ViX carry live matches for the home audience.
History and Head-to-Head
Colombia and DR Congo have no prior competitive meetings at senior level and have never faced off at a FIFA World Cup. This fixture therefore marks a historic first encounter. Colombia’s best World Cup finishes include quarter-final runs in 1990 and 2014.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold exclusively through FIFA’s official ticketing platform at FIFA.com. Matches in Guadalajara have attracted strong local demand, with hospitality packages offered through FIFA’s appointed partner. Mexican fans have historically been among the most vocal supporters at World Cup tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Congo DR vs Colombia start?
The match kicks off at 9pm CT (10pm ET, 3am BST) on Tuesday 23 June 2026.
Where is Congo DR vs Colombia being held?
At Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Guadalajara, Mexico.
How can I watch Congo DR vs Colombia?
BBC or ITV in the UK, FOX and Telemundo in the US, Caracol and RCN in Colombia, and FIFA+ worldwide.
When was DR Congo’s last World Cup appearance?
Their last FIFA World Cup appearance came at West Germany 1974, when they competed as Zaire.