Luis Diaz showcased why he ranks among the most in-form forwards in global football by delivering a Man of the Match display to guide Colombia to a spirited 3-1 triumph over Uzbekistan. The Bayern Munich star orchestrated Colombia’s attacking rhythm at the Estadio Azteca, launching their 2026 World Cup campaign in impressive fashion.
Diaz dictates play in Mexico City
In a match that demanded a moment of brilliance to unlock a resolute defence, Diaz rose to the occasion. The former Liverpool winger, now a central figure in Bayern Munich’s attacking setup, provided the creative spark that broke through Uzbekistan’s disciplined backline during the first half. After striking the post earlier in the game, Diaz turned provider in the 40th minute, threading an inch-perfect pass into the path of overlapping full-back Daniel Munoz. The Crystal Palace defender executed an acrobatic volley to send the ball beyond Utkir Yusupov and hand Colombia the lead.
Uzbekistan equalise before Bayern star restores Colombia’s control
Uzbekistan, making their maiden appearance at a World Cup finals, displayed admirable composure and refused to be intimidated by the occasion or the sea of Colombian supporters in the stands. Led by World Cup-winning coach Fabio Cannavaro, the Asian side remained disciplined and patient. Their persistence paid off around the hour mark when Abbosbek Fayzullaev reacted quickest to a rebound, nodding in a historic equaliser that sent their fans into raptures. However, their celebrations were short-lived.
Just five minutes later, Colombia reclaimed their advantage, once again through the influence of Diaz. After a turnover in midfield, Gustavo Puerta found the Bayern winger, whose low, driven effort proved too powerful for Yusupov to handle, slipping through the goalkeeper’s grasp to put Colombia back ahead and calm the travelling fans’ nerves.
Diaz savours dream debut as Lorenzo calls for improvement
Having inspired his team to victory, Diaz reflected on the significance of his World Cup debut. “I’m living out my childhood dream of playing in a World Cup for my national team and for my country,” said the 29-year-old after being named man of the match. “And what could be more beautiful than contributing with a goal and an assist?”
Despite the positive start, Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo maintained a grounded tone, acknowledging the challenge posed by the determined debutants. “We knew the first game wasn’t going to be easy,” Lorenzo said. “We could have scored and built a bigger lead, but our opponents played well; they’re a very compact team and it was difficult for us to get through. We need to finish off our moves. We had a lot of possession but didn’t create enough crosses or shots on goal; we need to improve that.”
The result positions Colombia strongly in Group K, especially after the draw between DR Congo and Portugal in the other fixture.
Campaz seals the win as Cannavaro reflects on positives
Colombia’s third goal arrived deep into stoppage time when substitute Jaminton Campaz rose highest to head in a cross from Juan Camilo Hernandez. It was a harsh conclusion for Uzbekistan, who had nearly levelled again moments earlier when teenager Bekhruz Karimov struck the crossbar. The final 3-1 scoreline may have flattered Colombia slightly, but their superior technical quality ultimately proved decisive.
Despite the loss, Cannavaro drew encouragement from his side’s resilience. “We need to improve,” the Italian legend admitted. “Beating Colombia and Portugal will be difficult. But today we stayed in the game until the end and the team understood when to absorb pressure and when to build through possession.” Uzbekistan now face a challenging road ahead in their group, while Colombia will once again look to Diaz to lead the way in tougher encounters later in the tournament.
