Colombia Secures its Ticket to the 2026 World Cup: Analysis of the Coffee Growers’ Path
The Colombian national football team, after a path full of ups and downs, managed to secure its qualification for the 2026 World Cup, finishing in third position in the South American qualifiers. An achievement that was realized on the penultimate matchday, after a campaign with brilliant moments and significant challenges.Classification Numbers
- Final Position: 3rd
- Total Points: 28 (11 less than Argentina)
- World Cup Appearances: 7
- Goal Difference: +10 (28 goals for / 18 goals against)
- Overall Performance: 7 wins, 7 draws, 4 losses
Key Figures in the Campaign
The Colombian national team had the leadership of outstanding figures on its way to the World Cup.- Luis Díaz: Second top scorer in the qualifiers with 7 goals.
- James Rodríguez: Top assist provider of the tournament, with 7 assists.
Luis Díaz’s historic brace against Brazil was a high point.
Alofoke Deportes
James Rodríguez shone as the team’s playmaker.
Alofoke Deportes
Luis Suárez secured his position as a forward, standing out with 4 goals in a crucial match.
Alofoke Deportes
The Team’s Foundation
From the start of the qualifiers, coach Néstor Lorenzo established a solid base in the starting team.- Camilo Vargas
- Daniel Muñoz
- Davinson Sánchez
- Jhon Lucumí
- Jefferson Lerma
- Richard Ríos
- James Rodríguez
- Luis Díaz
- Jhon Arias
- Johan Mojica
The Challenge in the Front
One of the challenges for Lorenzo was to find a center forward who would establish himself. Finally, Luis Suárez earned the position, standing out in the final matches.Key Moments Along the Way
The Colombian national team experienced key moments throughout the qualifiers, from historic victories to challenges that tested their mettle.- November 2023: Historic 2-1 victory against Brazil.
- July 2024: Runner-up in the Copa América.
- September 2024: 2-1 victory against Argentina.
- October 2024: 0-1 defeat against Bolivia.
- November 2024: Defeats against Uruguay and Ecuador.
- September 4, 2025: Qualification secured with a 3-0 victory against Bolivia.
