Colombia vs Japan: World Cup head-to-head record
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Colombia and Japan have met twice in World Cup history, with each side claiming one victory. Colombia won 4-1 in 2014, while Japan won 2-1 in 2018, leaving the all-time World Cup head-to-head perfectly level: played 2, Colombia won 1, Japan won 1, with zero draws between the two sides.
Both encounters came in the group stage, making their rivalry a tight and competitive one despite the relatively small number of meetings. Every match has produced a decisive result — no draws, no stalemates.
Full World Cup Head-to-Head Record: Colombia vs Japan
The two sides have crossed paths at the group stage on both occasions. Below is every World Cup meeting between Colombia and Japan:
| Year | Matchday | Result | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Matchday 13 | Japan 1-4 Colombia | Colombia |
| 2018 | Matchday 6 | Colombia 1-2 Japan | Japan |
Match Context
The 2014 encounter in Brazil is remembered as a commanding performance by Colombia, who ran out 4-1 winners against Japan in the group stage. The 2018 rematch in Russia told a very different story — Japan turned the tables with a 2-1 victory over Colombia, a result made more remarkable by the fact that Colombia had a player sent off early in the game, making it one of the most memorable upsets of that tournament. Japan's win in 2018 was their first-ever victory over a South American side at a World Cup.
With both nations eyeing strong runs at the 2026 World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a third meeting is entirely possible. Fans can track live scores, the full schedule, and build their bracket at Bola 2026 when the tournament gets underway.
Frequently asked questions
Has Colombia ever beaten Japan at the World Cup?
Yes. Colombia beat Japan 4-1 at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil during the group stage. It remains Colombia's only victory over Japan in World Cup history.
Has Japan ever beaten Colombia at the World Cup?
Yes. Japan defeated Colombia 2-1 at the 2018 World Cup in Russia in the group stage, levelling the all-time head-to-head record at one win apiece.
How many times have Colombia and Japan played at the World Cup?
Colombia and Japan have played each other twice at the World Cup — in 2014 and 2018 — with each team winning one match and no draws recorded between them.