Colombia finished at the summit of Group K after sharing the spoils with Portugal in a scoreless encounter at Miami Stadium.
The outcome guaranteed Colombia first place in the group, while Portugal advanced to the knockout stage as runners-up.
The Round of 32 will see Colombia face Ghana in Kansas City on 4 July (IST), whereas Portugal is scheduled to take on Croatia in Toronto on 3 July (IST).
Colombia imposed themselves from the opening whistle and nearly found an immediate breakthrough when Jhon Cordoba headed over from a deflected Luis Diaz effort.
Moments later, Cordoba surged into the box but was denied by an outstanding one-handed save from goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
The pressure continued as James Rodriguez threaded a clever pass into the path of Jhon Arias.
The winger’s low strike looked destined for the net before Ruben Neves produced a timely goal-line clearance to preserve parity.
After weathering sustained Colombian pressure, Portugal began to create openings of their own.
Bruno Fernandes forced Camilo Vargas into an excellent save with a fierce effort from inside the area. Later, Joao Felix failed to hit the target after finding space behind the Colombian defence.
Colombia remained the more dangerous side after the restart and repeatedly tested Portugal’s backline.
Substitute Richard Rios narrowly missed the target before Arias once again troubled Costa, who tipped his deflected effort behind.
Gustavo Puerta also came within inches of scoring with a powerful strike from distance.
The decisive moment appeared to arrive in stoppage time when Davinson Sanchez headed home Juan Quintero’s inviting cross.
The assistant referee’s flag ruled out the effort for offside, ensuring the match finished goalless.
The stalemate was a historic one for Colombia, marking the nation’s first 0-0 draw in 25 FIFA World Cup appearances while confirming their place at the top of Group K.
Also Read: Croatia Beat Ghana 2-1 To Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32
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