Many people are backing Colombia to cruise to a comfortable win in this matchup, but the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s defensive strength cannot be overlooked. Colombia opened with a 3-1 victory over their opponents, with Díaz in hot form. The whole team is controlling the game well and creating plenty of threat down the flanks. As long as they keep the tempo under control, picking up points should not be too difficult. However, there is a clear vulnerability: once the full-backs push forward, the space behind them can easily be exploited by pacey forwards. The Democratic Republic of the Congo held Portugal to a draw in the last round, staying compact with a five-man defense and putting up a stubborn rear guard throughout. Their defenders are all regulars in the Premier League and Ligue 1, with physical duels at a very high level. Even when under sustained pressure for long periods, they are unlikely to concede repeatedly. Their attacking methods are limited, relying mainly on counterattacks and set pieces, but their defensive floor is high enough, and they can mostly withstand intense pressure in the first half. One key point to watch is that the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s fitness tends to drop noticeably in the latter stages, but Colombia, with qualification possible early, are unlikely to go all-out in attack. Once they take the lead, the pace could slow down. Given the current line, backing the home side for a big win carries relatively high risk. The Democratic Republic of the Congo have the conditions to stay within the handicap, away team +1