Colombian National Team Prepares for Challenging World Cup Qualifier in El Alto

The Colombian national football team is gearing up for a challenging World Cup qualifier match in El Alto, Bolivia. This encounter poses a significant test due to its unique location at an altitude of 4,150 meters above sea level. While Colombia has enjoyed a positive track record playing in the high-altitude city of La Paz, the upcoming match represents a new challenge, as it marks their first game in El Alto.

Since 2007, Colombia has successfully avoided defeat in Bolivia’s capital, La Paz, achieving two victories and two draws. These achievements have come despite the formidable conditions often associated with playing at such an elevated altitude. The team has managed to deliver positive results under the guidance of various coaches throughout these years.

The Colombian squad’s previous encounters in La Paz include a 0-0 draw in 2007 under coach Jorge Luis Pinto and a 1-2 victory in 2011 under coach Leonel Álvarez, where Dorlan Pabón and Radamel Falcao García scored decisive goals. In 2016, under the leadership of José Pékerman, the team clinched a thrilling 2-3 win with goals from James Rodríguez, Carlos Bacca, and Edwin Cardona.

Most recently, in 2021, Reinaldo Rueda led the team to a 1-1 draw, with Róger Martínez scoring for Colombia. These past performances have instilled confidence in the current squad as they look to maintain their unbeaten streak in high-altitude games.

The Colombian team, often referred to as “La Tricolor,” is led by Coach Néstor Lorenzo, who aims to extend the team’s positive streak in Bolivia. The historic adaptability and resilience shown by players in previous matches fuel optimism ahead of this crucial pre-World Cup qualifier match.