Colombia secured top spot in Group K after holding Portugal goalless in their final group stage match, leaving Cristiano Ronaldo’s side to qualify for the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup as runners-up.
The South Americans had the better chances in an entertaining contest in Miami and were unfortunate not to claim all three points after Davinson Sanchez’s late goal was ruled out for offside.
The result means Colombia will face Ghana in the round of 16, while Portugal are paired with Croatia.
Colombia dominates, but fails to make a breakthrough
Colombia started brightly, with Jhon Cordoba heading over the bar in the first minute before forcing a one-handed save from Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
Portugal gradually settled into the contest and almost broke the deadlock when Bruno Fernandes met a cross from close range, but Camilo Vargas made a brilliant reflex save to keep the tie alive.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored twice in Portugal’s previous 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, found few opportunities to influence the game as Colombia controlled long periods of possession.
After the break, Colombia continued to push forward, with Richard Rios and Gustavo Puerta going close.
Luis Suarez also missed a golden chance, volleying into an open goal before Sanchez thought he had scored the winner in the closing moments.
However, the defender’s header was ruled out after a backfield check showed it had gone past the last defender by the narrowest of margins.
Knockout ties confirmed
Although they failed to score for the first time at the 2026 World Cup, Colombia’s point was enough to finish top of Group K.
James Rodriguez made his 11th World Cup appearance for Colombia, setting a new national record before receiving a standing ovation when he was substituted.
Portugal, needing a win to clinch first place, had to settle for second place despite comfortably progressing to the knockout round.
Group winners Colombia will face Ghana in Kansas City on July 4, while Portugal will meet Croatia a day earlier in a Round of 32 clash between the two European heavyweights.
