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Lorenzo calls for calm heads as Colombia ready for DR Congo challenge

Colombia's coach Nestor Lorenzo
Colombia's coach Nestor LorenzoAgustin Marcarian / Reuters

Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo ⁠said on Monday his side must neutralise DR Congo's counter-attacking ‌threat while maintaining their identity when the ‌teams meet in World Cup ‌Group K on Tuesday in Guadalajara.

 

The ‌South Americans opened with a 3-1 ‌win over Uzbekistan and can secure a round of 32 berth ‌with victory, but Lorenzo warned ⁠DR Congo, ‌who drew 1-1 with Portugal in their ​opener, would pose a different tactical challenge.

Congo's 5-3-2 ​formation, with two forwards held high, makes transitions and counter-attacks the key ⁠danger to ​manage, Lorenzo said.

Luis Diaz scored and assisted against Uzbekistan and Lorenzo praised the Bayern Munich forward's ‌versatility.

"The important thing is not how many times he attacks, but how the moves finish," Lorenzo said of Diaz. "Lucho is a complete forward."

Colombia - DR Congo win probability
Colombia - DR Congo win probabilityOpta by StatsPerform

Lorenzo said he had no major selection doubts and declined to name his lineup.

Lorenzo urged ‌his players to channel the ​crowd's energy without losing composure, ‌after several were visibly moved against Uzbekistan at the Azteca Stadium.

"We have to play with a hot heart and a cool head," ⁠he said.

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FIFA World Cup 2026

The 2026 World Cup took place from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament featured 48 national teams and was won by Spain, who beat Argentina in the final.

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