Colombia Open World Cup Campaign with 3-1 Win Over Uzbekistan

Colombia opened its World Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over first-time qualifiers Uzbekistan on Thursday morning, moving to the top of Group K behind goals from Daniel Munoz, Luis Diaz and Jaminton Campaz.

Munoz broke the deadlock with a stretching volley after Diaz, who had already hit the post once, slid him through with a sharp pass. Uzbekistan, managed by former World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro, leveled in the 60th minute when Abbosbek Fayzullaev headed in from close range after Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas could only parry a shot from Gustavo Puerta.

Colombia did not stay level for long. Diaz restored the lead soon after, beating Utkir Yusupov even though the Uzbek keeper got both hands to the shot. It marked Diaz's first ever World Cup goal, coming on the back of a strong debut season at Bayern Munich, where he scored 15 goals and set up 14 more in a league and cup winning campaign following his move from Liverpool last summer.

Uzbekistan, ranked 50th in the world, almost pulled level again late on, but Akmal Mozgovoy's effort in the 90th minute curled just wide. Substitute Campaz then headed in a third for Colombia to settle things, though Uzbekistan had one more chance, with Jakhongir Urozov striking the crossbar before the final whistle.

The result puts Colombia in good shape in Group K, which also saw Portugal held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo last night. 

Uzbekistan face Portugal next on Tuesday, while Colombia take on DR Congo early Wednesday morning.