Colombia Set to Face Brazil in Crucial World Cup Qualifying Match

BRASILIA, Brazil — Colombia’s national football team, under coach Néstor Lorenzo, has finalized its lineup for the pivotal World Cup 2026 qualifying match against Brazil, scheduled for March 20 at 7:45 p.m. Colombian time. With a history of difficulty gaining victories in Brazil, the team aims to overcome previous mistakes following recent losses against Uruguay and Ecuador.

Coach Lorenzo announced his starting eleven after a rigorous training week in Brasilia, prioritizing familiarity over experimentation. ‘We needed to maintain continuity with the players who have been effective,’ Lorenzo noted. Among the starters are key players such as Jhon Córdoba, who has recently shown promising form, and Johan Mojica, who has recovered from an injury.

The selected players for the match include Camilo Vargas, Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, John Lucumí, Johan Mojica, Jefferson Lerma, Richard Ríos, Jhon Arias, James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz, and Jhon Córdoba.

Lorenzo had to make tough decisions regarding three players who will not feature in the match. Jhon Jader Durán was ruled out due to suspension, while Johan Carbonero and Jaminton Campaz also missed the cut for the starting lineup. ‘These decisions are always challenging, but we trust that the players chosen will deliver the necessary performance,’ said Lorenzo.

As they prepare for the clash with Brazil, Colombia’s squad is also aware of the challenges posed by their opponents, who are missing several stars, including Neymar. ‘Though they have notable absences, the talent pool Brazil possesses is still formidable. We must work to neutralize their strengths,’ Lorenzo acknowledged at a pre-match press conference.

Colombia’s recent form highlights the urgency of securing valuable points in the qualification process, especially after failing to secure wins in their last matches. ‘Our goal is to rediscover the competitive spirit we displayed during the last Copa América,’ said Lorenzo, referencing the national team’s strong performance just months prior.

Off the pitch, a light-hearted social media initiative asked Brazilian fans which Colombian player they would prefer on the national team. Luis Díaz emerged as the most popular choice among respondents, noted for his impactful performances at Liverpool. ‘He is a standout player on the world stage,’ remarked one fan.

As excitement builds for the match, both fans and players are hopeful that Colombia will break their winning drought on Brazilian soil and move closer to securing a spot in the World Cup.