World Cup 2026 · Group K · June 17
Uzbekistan vs Colombia Prediction
Group K at SoFi Stadium, June 17 (10pm ET). Colombia are in a strong position to finish second behind Portugal — winning this opener is the first step.
Score Prediction
Colombia 2–0 Uzbekistan. Colombia have the quality of James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz and a talented squad. Uzbekistan are making their World Cup debut and are not at the same level. Colombia should win this comfortably.
Match Details
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| Date | June 17, 2026 |
| Kick-off | 10:00 PM ET (3:00 AM BST) |
| Venue | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood CA |
| Group | K |
| Our prediction | Colombia 2–0 |
Analysis
Group K has Portugal, Colombia, Ghana and Uzbekistan. Portugal are the favourites to win the group. Colombia's task is second place, and their opener against debutants Uzbekistan is a must-win.
Colombia bring a squad of real quality — Luis Díaz is dangerous from the left and capable of decisive moments, James Rodríguez provides creative excellence in midfield, and Richard Ríos adds physicality and work rate. Uzbekistan are qualifying for their first ever World Cup after a strong AFC campaign, but the jump from Asian qualifying to facing a Colombia side with multiple Champions League regulars is enormous. This should be a comfortable afternoon for Colombia.
- Colombia: technically gifted, dangerous wide, James Rodríguez provides creativity on and off the ball.
- Uzbekistan: well-drilled, disciplined, but the quality gap against European and South American sides is significant.
- Key factor: Colombia's width — Díaz and the right winger should have space to exploit Uzbekistan's organised but limited defence.