When does 2026 World Cup Group K start?
Group K opens on June 17, 2026, with Portugal playing their first match. All three matchdays are completed by June 27.
The Narrative Group
Portugal and Colombia meet in a high-profile showdown. A section defined by legendary farewells and long-awaited returns.
Group K is narratively rich. Portugal likely features Cristiano Ronaldo in his fifth and final World Cup appearance, while Colombia returns to the world stage as South American champions after a painful 8-year absence.
Uzbekistan (an AFC rising power) and Congo DR (returning after 52 years) ensure that the group represents the true global diversity of the expanded 48-team format.
| Slot | Team | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| K1 | Portugal | Europe / Ronaldo Farewell |
| K2 | Colombia | CONMEBOL Champion |
| K3 | Uzbekistan | AFC Rising Power |
| K4 | Congo DR | 52-Year Return |
Every Portugal match centers on the legendary captain's role.
Portugal's squad is arguably at its strongest point in history, with depth in every position. However, the psychological weight of manageing Ronaldo's final tournament role is a variable that Colombia will look to exploit through high-intensity physical play.
A win for Portugal in the opener would secure their status as title contenders and allow for squad rotation in the final matchday.
A historic return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
The Democratic Republic of Congo's qualification (last seen as Zaire in 1974) is a testament to the expansion's reach. They enter as tactical wildcards, featuring a generation of European-based players who bring physical dominance to the midfield.
In a group with technically superior sides like Portugal and Colombia, Congo DR's goal is to disrupt the rhythm and compete for a historic third-place advancement slot.
Note: Group K teams and the historic return of Congo DR are confirmed.
Group K opens on June 17, 2026, with Portugal playing their first match. All three matchdays are completed by June 27.
Group K consists of Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, Congo DR.
The top two teams automatically qualify for the Round of 32. The third-place team will also advance if they are among the eight best third-placed teams across all 12 groups.