Colombia secured a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their World Cup group-stage clash

Colombia opened their Group K campaign with a 3-1 win over FIFA World Cup newcomers Uzbekistan on Wednesday, inspired by a standout display from Luis Diaz at the Estadio Azteca.

The Bayern Munich forward played a key role in the victory, registering a goal and an assist while also striking the post, as Colombia overcame a spirited challenge from Uzbekistan in front of 80,824 fans in Mexico City.

Diaz set up the opening goal in the 40th minute with a brilliant lofted pass that Daniel Munoz converted with a volley. However, Uzbekistan responded through Abbosbek Fayzullaev, who scored his country's first-ever World Cup goal by heading home the rebound after Eldor Shomurodov's volley had been saved.

Colombia regained the lead when Diaz found the net with a shot that Uzbek goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov failed to keep out.

Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory deep into stoppage time with a well-taken header, making it 3-1.

The result sends Colombia to the top of Group K, ahead of Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, who played out a 1-1 draw earlier in the day.