Uzbekistan begins 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with Colombia clash.

Uzbekistan vs. Colombia kicks off at 03:00 [GMT+1] on Thursday, June 18, at the Mexico City Stadium.

Uzbekistan and Colombia meet in Group K of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Mexico City Stadium, with both nations bringing encouraging recent form into what promises to be a fascinating contest. While Colombia arrive with greater experience on the world stage and a squad packed with attacking talent, Uzbekistan have become one of the most difficult teams to break down and will be confident of making life uncomfortable for their South American opponents. Under the guidance of former Italian defender Fabio Cannavaro, Uzbekistan have built their success on defensive organisation and tactical discipline. Their recent record reflects those qualities. Across their last 20 matches in all competitions, Uzbekistan have won 11 times, scoring 1.55 goals per game while conceding only 0.65. Those defensive numbers are particularly impressive and suggest a side capable of competing against stronger opponents. The Central Asian nation have also developed a reputation for consistency. They have remained unbeaten in 83% of their last 40 matches in all competitions and enter this fixture unbeaten in their previous five. While defence remains their greatest strength, Uzbekistan have also shown they can be dangerous going forward. Twelve of their last 30 victories have come by margins of two goals or more. Getting off to a winning start may be a huge call, but the White Wolves will be looking to earn at least a point in this opener. Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov is expected at the attacking end of a 4—3—2—1 set-up.

Colombia arrive with a slightly more attacking profile. Under Néstor Lorenzo, they have won 10 of their last 20 matches while averaging 1.85 goals scored and 0.9 conceded per game. Their ability to control possession is another important aspect of their game, with an average possession figure approaching 57% with more than five shots on target per match across that period. However, Colombia's recent results suggest they have occasionally struggled to convert dominance into victories. Three of their last six matches have ended in draws, despite averaging 2.17 goals scored during that run. While their attack remains productive, conceding 1.33 goals per game in that same period indicates that defensive control has not always matched their offensive output. Like Uzbekistan, Colombia also arrive unbeaten in their last five matches and have avoided defeat in 81% of their previous 27 fixtures. That consistency highlights why they are expected to challenge for qualification from the group. A 4—3—3 formation with Jhon Córdoba, Bayern’s Luis Díaz and Jhon Arias in attack is expected against Uzbekistan.