COLOMBIA struck late to break DR Congo hearts in a narrow victory in Guadalajara.
But the result means the prospect of one of the most tantalising World Cup showdowns ever is hanging in the balance.
Daniel Munoz’s goal gave Colombia the win over DR Congo Credit: AP
The result propelled the South American’s above Portugal in their group with the pair set to clash later this week Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
star Daniel Munoz was the difference maker – thanks in part to a healthy helping of good fortune.
The flying wing-back popped up on the edge of the box to fire his effort in via a significant deflection from a Congolese defender in the 76th minute.
But despite the strike sending the fans into raptures, it may be a death blow for neutral fans’ hopes of an anticipated face-off between and .
Both and would need to top their respective groups to set up a potential clash in the quarter-finals in the US.
Argentina have done their part, securing their status at the top of Group J with victories over and Algeria, thanks to five goals from Messi between the two games.
But with a crucial three points over , Colombia have jumped to the top of Group K on six points, ahead of Portugal who have managed just four from their opening two fixtures.
Now Ronaldo and Co will have to beat Colombia outright to keep the possibility of a quarters clash alive.
The win could have been even more convincing for Colombia, with and former maverick having the ball in the back of the net twice for the South American nation.
Lionel Messi could face Portugal in the quarter finals if they top their group Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
But Colombia head into the final match of Group K with a perfect record Credit: Getty But an offside offence and a foul denied him on both occasions, leading the frustrated winger to smack the ground in frustration.
The ghost goals were despite the outstanding efforts of Congolese stopper Lionel Mpasi, who made eight saves, and was only caught out by an unfortunate deflection.
DR Congo returned some fire of their own late on, forcing Mpasi’s opposite number Camilo Vargas into some full-stretch saves to protect his nation’s lead.
But ultimately Los Cafeteros proved too much for the African squad, even with their talismanic supporter
Viral fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, known as Lumumba Vea, was distraught after the result Credit: Getty
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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