Luis Diaz scored and assisted one goal to help Colombia secure a 3-1 triumph over Uzbekistan on Wednesday night, local time, in the opening round of Group 11 in the FIFA World Cup, currently hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
In Mexico City, Daniel Munoz opened the scoring for Colombia in the 41st minute, courtesy of an assist from Diaz. Abbasbek Fayzullaev then equalized for Uzbekistan, marking their debut in the World Cup, in the 60th minute with their first-ever World Cup goal.
Uzbekistan's celebration was short-lived as Diaz netted a second goal for Colombia in the 65th minute, followed by a goal from Jhaminton Campaz in the ninth minute of stoppage time in the second half.
The Colombian team now sits at the top of the group standings with 3 points, two points ahead of Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who drew 1-1 in their opening match. Uzbekistan is at the bottom with no points.
In the second round of group play, Uzbekistan will face Portugal, while the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia meet in another anticipated match.
The World Cup features 48 teams divided into 12 groups, containing four teams each, with the top two from each group advancing to the knockout stages, along with the eight best third-placed teams.