Colombia celebrated their return to the FIFA World Cup with a thrilling victory over debutants Uzbekistan thanks to an inspirational performance by Luis Diaz.
The end-to-end clash, which was sealed by a 99th minute header from substitute Jaminton Campaz, ensured the first round of group-stage matches in North America ended on a high note.
Diaz was the star attraction after expertly setting up Daniel Munoz’s first-half opener before securing the victory in the second stanza.
With Portugal being held to a draw by Congo DR earlier in the day, Colombia have now taken early control of Group K.
There was a moment to remember for Uzbekistan when Abbosbek Fayzullaev levelled the scores for the team’s maiden World Cup goal.
But with Diaz pulling the strings, the South Americans proved too strong in the end.
Backed by their boisterous supporters, Colombia had the first meaningful chance in the 17th minute when midfielder Jhon Arias struck the side netting from distance.
The South Americans came even closer in the 32nd minute when the outstanding Diaz guided a left-footed effort past Uzbek goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov and on to the foot of the post.
It seemed just a matter of time before Colombia would break the deadlock.
That moment came five minutes before the break when Diaz’s pinpoint pass over the Uzbek backline was expertly flicked on by Munoz with the outside of his boot.
Uzbekistan refused to give up and leveled the scores when Dostonbek Khamdamov’s volleyed effort following Eldor Shomurdov’s left-wing cross struck the post and fell into the path of Fayzullaev, who headed home for a historic goal.
The debutants’ joy was short-lived, however.
Colombia immediately fought back and restored the lead after Diaz’s low strike hit the gloves of Yusupov and crossed the line.
It was Diaz’s inaugural World Cup goal.
The three points were sealed deep into injury time when Cucho Hernandez brilliantly won the ball on the right wing and crossed to fellow substitute Campaz, who powered home a header.
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