Díaz progresses with Colombia, England and Croatia hoping to top the group

A huge success for Luis Díaz and the Colombian national team: thanks to their 1–0 win over the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the South Americans have secured their place in the round of 32 ahead of their final group match against Portugal in the early hours of Sunday morning (01:30 CEST). England, led by captain Harry Kane, could only manage a 0–0 draw against Ghana following their opening win over Croatia. Bayern defender Josip Stanišić, on the other hand, celebrated his first World Cup win as Croatia narrowly beat Panama 1–0. Get the lowdown on the matches in our round-up.

The Colombians were clearly the better side in their second group match in Guadalajara but failed to capitalise on their chances, particularly in the early stages. It took until the 76th minute for right-back Daniel Muñoz to open the scoring against DR Congo, who had at least managed to snatch a point from co-favourites Portugal in their opening match. Two goals by Bayern’s dynamic winger Luis Díaz were disallowed for a foul (79') and offside (81'). It means Colombia will be playing for top spot in the group in their final game against Portugal (4 points) on Sunday. A solitary point will be enough for the “Cafeteros” to secure first place.

In a lacklustre affair, England and Ghana played out a goalless draw. Despite the Three Lions, led by Bayern striker Kane, coming close on several occasions, particularly in the closing stages, the clash between the two sides who had won their opening matches ended in a draw. As a result, the group winners will be decided on the final matchday. England look to have the best chance here and the best goal difference: Panama, who have already been eliminated, await Thomas Tuchel’s side at 23:00 CEST on Saturday.

Croatia celebrated their first crucial World Cup victory – and Bayern defender Stanišić set up the goal of the day. For much of the match, however, the Croatians were unable to capitalise on their apparent dominance, as they were too harmless in the final third. Nine minutes after the break, substitute Ante Budimir capitalised on a cross from Stanišić to put his side ahead – and that was how it ended. It means Croatia are still in the running to top the group ahead of their final game against Ghana on Saturday at 23:00 CEST.