Mexico City: Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov was involved in a dramatic collision with a camera operator during his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Colombia at the Estadio Azteca on Wednesday night.

The incident occurred in the first half when the Manchester City defender chased a loose ball near the touchline while challenging Colombia star Luis Diaz. Unable to stop his momentum, Khusanov crashed into a camera operator positioned on the sidelines.

Medical personnel, including a FIFA doctor, quickly attended to the injured camera operator following the collision. No immediate update was provided on the individual's condition.

The incident briefly halted play and drew concern from players and officials before the match resumed.

Despite the unexpected interruption, the Group K encounter developed into an entertaining contest as World Cup debutants Uzbekistan pushed one of South America's strongest sides all the way.

Despite the unexpected interruption, the Group K encounter developed into an entertaining contest as World Cup debutants Uzbekistan pushed one of South America's strongest sides all the way.

Colombia dominated possession throughout the opening period, controlling nearly 67 per cent of the ball and creating the better chances. Their pressure finally paid off in the 41st minute when right-back Daniel Muñoz produced an exquisite volley to put Los Cafeteros ahead.

The Central Asian nation, making history with its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, responded impressively after the break.

Abbosbek Fayzullaev stunned Colombia on the hour mark, capitalising on a lapse in concentration to level the scores and spark celebrations among the Uzbek supporters.

The parity, however, lasted only five minutes.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz restored Colombia's lead in the 65th minute, stepping up when his side needed him most and firing home to make it 2-1.

Colombia then sealed all three points late in the contest as substitute Jhon Durán found the net, wrapping up a 3-1 victory for Néstor Lorenzo's side in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture.