Colombia, Portugal Secure FIFA World Cup Knockout Spots After Thrilling 0-0 Draw

Published 28 June 2026 · sports

Colombia, Portugal Secure FIFA World Cup Knockout Spots After Thrilling 0-0 Draw Published By, Last Updated: June 28, 2026, 07:15 IST Colombia topped Group K

Colombia, Portugal Secure FIFA World Cup Knockout Spots After Thrilling 0-0 Draw Published By, Last Updated: June 28, 2026, 07:15 IST Colombia topped Group K after a gripping 0-0 draw with Portugal, surviving late VAR drama to set up a Round of 32 clash with Ghana as Portugal booked a date with Croatia. Rapid Read (Credit: AP) Colombia and Portugal played out a tense 0-0 draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K finale — a result that suited both sides as they safely advanced to the Round of 32 after an entertaining battle at Hard Rock Stadium. The stalemate ensured Colombia finished top of the group with seven points and set up a knockout clash against Ghana. Portugal, meanwhile, ended second and will now face Croatia after collecting five points from their three group-stage matches. Colombia Start on the Front Foot Knowing a draw would be enough to secure first place, Colombia showed greater urgency from the opening whistle.

The South Americans nearly struck inside the opening minutes before Jhon Córdoba twice forced Diogo Costa into excellent saves. Portugal’s goalkeeper was in inspired form early on, denying Córdoba from close range before Ruben Neves produced a superb goal-line clearance midway through the first half to keep the scores level. Portugal gradually found their rhythm as the half wore on. Bruno Fernandes came closest when his fierce effort was brilliantly tipped away by Camilo Vargas, while Ruben Neves and João Félix also threatened as both teams headed into the break locked at 0-0. Chances at Both Ends The contest remained finely balanced after the restart, with neither side willing to settle despite knowing a draw would send both through. Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had his moment just after the hour mark, only for the move to be halted for offside. João Félix looked lively throughout the second half, while Colombia repeatedly turned to the creativity of James Rodríguez, whose passing continued to unlock the Portuguese defence.

Rodríguez orchestrated Colombia’s best attacking moves, creating clear opportunities for Richard Ríos and Luis Suárez, but neither could find the finishing touch. At the other end, Rafael Leão added fresh energy after coming off the bench, while Bruno Fernandes continued to dictate Portugal’s attacks. Late VAR Twist Caps Dramatic Finish The match burst into life in stoppage time. Davinson Sánchez appeared to have headed Colombia into a dramatic winner in the 91st minute, sparking wild celebrations, only for the assistant referee’s flag to go up. A lengthy VAR review confirmed the defender had strayed offside, ruling out what would have been the decisive goal. Portugal almost snatched victory moments later when Leão raced clear down the right, but his attempted finish drifted wide under pressure. Neither side could find the breakthrough in the closing moments, bringing an absorbing contest to an end. While there was no winner on the scoreboard, both teams walked away satisfied — knowing that they live to fight another day in the tournament.