Colombia defender becomes hero: Muñoz scores in second consecutive World Cup match

Colombia defeated the Democratic Republic of Congo at the World Cup in Guadalajara thanks to right-back Daniel Muñoz's goal and secured a place among the group stage winners. Croatia edged past Panama 1:0, England drew 0:0 with Ghana. Midsummer's Eve offered football fans an exciting night of matches.

The night-time fixtures of the second round of the Football World Cup on Midsummer's Eve offered Estonian viewers a series of exciting matches that continued through the night into the early morning hours.

Muñoz brings victory to Colombia

In the match against the Democratic Republic of Congo held in Guadalajara, Mexico, Colombia's right-back Daniel Muñoz repeated his achievement from the previous match and scored again. Muñoz had even more chances, reaching the ball close to goal in the fourth minute but failing to find the target from just a few metres away. Later, one of his goals was disallowed due to an offside position.

Colombia's victory was also aided by a brilliant performance from the opposition's goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, the 31-year-old Le Havre keeper made seven saves during the match and kept the score at 0:0 for a long time. This made Colombia's victory more difficult, but ultimately Muñoz delivered the decisive blow for his team.

With the victory, Colombia secured their place in the next round and will face Portugal in the final group match, whom they surpass this time. Since Colombia only need a draw to advance, the final group match against the Portuguese allows for an open group competition.

Croatia and Modrić overcome Panama hurdle

Croatia defeated Panama 1:0 thanks to a goal by substitute Ante Budimir. However, the match proceeded uncomfortably for Croatia, as Panama dominated the first ninety minutes and pressed continuously. The saviour turned out to be goalkeeper Dominik Livaković, who made a superb save against, among others, José Rodríguez's sharp header.

Early in the second half, Croatia also withdrew their superstar Joško Gvardiol from the pitch, which was a significant decision. In the end, Budimir did his job, scoring after a combination play between Pašalić and Stanišić on the right flank.

The match also marked a historic moment: Luka Modrić earned his 200th international cap, becoming the fourth footballer in the world to reach this milestone. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa have achieved the same feat before him. Modrić made his World Cup debut in 2006 and has now played 21 World Cup matches.

England Draw with Ghana

Before the Croatia-Panama match, there was also a game between England and Ghana, which ended in a 0:0 draw. England also showed a combative but uneven performance and failed to break through Ghana's defence.

The group stage was opened by Portugal, who defeated Uzbekistan 5:0 under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo.