World Cup Group K permutations: What do Portugal need to qualify?

There is still everything to play for in Group K at the World Cup 2026, with all four teams still having a chance to qualify for the knockouts.

Colombia lead the way after the first round of fixtures, beating Uzbekistan 3-1, while Portugal and DR Congo drew 1-1.

Colombia face DR Congo next, while Portugal play Uzbekistan with the hope of getting their first win on the board as pre-tournament favourites to win the group.

Should any team not finish in the top two to qualify for the knockouts, there is a safety cushion in the respect that the eight best third-placed teams will also go through.

What Portugal need to qualify for World Cup knockout stages

Realistically, a win for Portugal would see them qualify for the knockouts, as four points or more should be enough.

Roberto Martinez's men were disappointedly held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening game, but face debutants Uzbekistan in their next match, and will be overwhelming favourites to get the victory needed.

What Colombia need to qualify for World Cup knockout stages

Another win for Colombia would send them safely through to the knockouts, after beating Uzbekistan in their opening game.

They face DR Congo next, and based on FIFA rankings, will be favourites for victory.

Just a point from their final two matches may also be enough for Colombia, while even two defeats could still see them through should other factors go in their favour.

What DR Congo needs to qualify for World Cup knockout stages

DR Congo realistically need a win to secure their place at the knockouts, after drawing with Portugal in their opening match.

Four points should be enough, and the African nation could get that victory in their next game against Colombia.

Two more draws in their two group matches could also be enough for DR Congo, should other factors go their way.

What Uzbekistan need to qualify for World Cup knockout stages

Uzbekistan realistically need four points from the final two group games to reach the knockouts, after losing to Colombia in their opening match.

They face group favourites Portugal next, and another defeat would realistically end their dreams of reaching the knockouts on their World Cup debut.