Colombia tops group, Messi scores again as World Cup group stage ends with late drama
Argentina's Lionel Messi netted his sixth goal of the tournament in a 3-1 win over Jordan while Colombia held Portugal to a goalless draw to top Group K, setting up a round-of-16 lineup filled with dramatic late twists.
Colombia frustrates Portugal in Miami Gardens
Colombia entered the Hard Rock Stadium already sure of a knockout spot but still needing a point to finish first. Portugal, four points adrift, required a win. The match began with Colombian pressure: Jhon Cordoba tested Diogo Costa after 62 seconds and again in the 17th minute, forcing a sharp save. Late in the first half Bruno Fernandes forced Camilo Vargas into a reflex stop, but the teams went into the break scoreless.
After the restart Colombia continued to dictate play. Richard Rios missed a close-range chance from a James Rodriguez delivery, and Luis Suarez, off the bench, sent an overhead kick narrowly over. In stoppage time Davinson Sanchez headed in a corner, only for VAR to rule it offside by the tip of his boot. The 0-0 draw secured first place for Colombia and left Portugal second.
Messi adds to his tally against Jordan
Argentina had already clinched Group J ahead of the final fixture and manager Lionel Scaloni rotated heavily. Jordan held the champions until the second half, but the gulf in quality eventually told. Lionel Messi entered on the hour and, with a free-kick in the 80th minute, struck his sixth goal of the 2026 World Cup, his 19th overall across all tournaments. The 3-1 victory set up a round-of-16 meeting with Cape Verde.
Austria survives six-goal thriller
Algeria and Austria both knew a draw would suffice to progress, yet they produced a wild 3-3 encounter. Algeria seemed to snatch the win with a goal for 3-2 in the dying minutes, only for Austria to level almost immediately and preserve second place on goal difference. Sebastian Prödl’s side now face Spain in the next round, while Algeria will take on Switzerland.
Other results and historic firsts
In Group K, DR Congo came from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice, to claim third place and a historic first knockout-phase appearance at a World Cup. They will meet England, who defeated Panama 2-0 on goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, his third of the tournament. Croatia edged Ghana 2-1 to finish second in Group L and will face Portugal.
Coaching fallout
Scotland’s group-stage exit prompted the immediate resignation of Steve Clarke after seven years in charge. The coach, who had a contract beyond the tournament, released an emotional statement confirming his departure.
Round of 16 pairings
Colombia vs Ghana, Portugal vs Croatia, Argentina vs Cape Verde, Austria vs Spain, England vs DR Congo, and Croatia vs Portugal are among the confirmed ties.
