Colombia should handle this comfortably. They've won three of their last four games heading into this World Cup clash with Congo DR, including that 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan just a week ago. Congo DR picked up a solid point against Portugal in their opener but face a different test now.
This marks the first meeting between the sides at international level, so no history to lean on. Colombia sit top of Group K with three points from one game while Congo DR trail on one. The South Americans have looked sharp in attack lately, with Luis Díaz scoring against Uzbekistan and Daniel Muñoz also finding the net in that match. James Rodríguez continues to pull the strings from midfield as captain.
Congo DR's main threat is Yoane Wissa, who grabbed their first ever World Cup goal in the draw with Portugal. Their predicted 4-4-2 setup leans on players like Chancel Mbemba and Aaron Wan-Bissaka at the back, but they've had little recent form to build on beyond that single result. No injuries or suspensions reported for either side, which keeps things straightforward.
Colombia line up in a 4-2-3-1 with Camilo Vargas in goal, Davinson Sánchez and Jhon Lucumí central, and the likes of Jhon Arias and Luis Díaz supporting the forward line. Expect them to control possession and create chances through the middle. Congo DR will need to stay compact if they hope to frustrate, though their earlier qualifier results sit outside the current window.
The standings favor Colombia advancing toward the knockouts, and their recent results back that up. A win here would put them in a strong position in the group with Portugal and Uzbekistan still to navigate.
Recommended Bets
Colombia win @1.70 — strong recent form with three wins in four and top of the group after Matchday 1
Over 2.5 goals @2.10 — Colombia's last three games all featured at least three goals combined
Luis Díaz anytime goalscorer @2.40 — in-form winger who scored in the 3-1 win over Uzbekistan
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
