Group K features Portugal — one of Europe's great footballing nations — alongside Colombia, DR Congo and Uzbekistan. Portugal arrive potentially in a post-Ronaldo era but with a squad that may be stronger for the transition. Colombia are South America's most exciting attacking team. DR Congo qualify as one of Africa's most historically significant footballing nations. Uzbekistan make a historic first appearance.

🇵🇹 Portugal

Portugal finished third at the 1966 World Cup with Eusebio scoring 9 goals including 4 against North Korea. In the modern era they reached the semi-finals in 2006 and the quarter-finals in 2022. The post-Ronaldo era represents both a challenge and an opportunity — a squad with extraordinary depth finally playing without one man carrying everything.

🇨🇴 Colombia

Colombia's finest World Cup was in 2014 when they reached the quarter-finals and James Rodriguez won the Golden Boot with 6 goals including a stunning volley against Uruguay. Carlos Valderrama's Colombia sides of the 1990s produced some of the most attractive football the tournament has seen.

🇨🇩 DR Congo

DR Congo — formerly Zaire — made their only World Cup appearance in 1974 in West Germany. Their return to the tournament in 2026 ends a 52-year absence and represents a significant moment for African football. The Democratic Republic of Congo has one of the largest football followings on the continent.

🇺🇿 Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan make their World Cup debut in 2026, becoming the first Central Asian nation to qualify for the tournament. Their qualification from the Asian confederation ahead of more established nations is a remarkable achievement and represents the growing strength of football across the former Soviet republics.