Colombia Takes on Bolivia in Barranquilla for World Cup Qualification

Colombia will face Bolivia on Thursday, September 4, at the Estadio Metropolitano in Barranquilla. This qualifier is crucial for securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as reported by Infobae. The match is part of the 17th round of CONMEBOL qualifiers and will begin at 6:30 p.m. local time.

Under Coach Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia is currently in sixth place with 22 points, just two points ahead of Venezuela, which holds the playoff position. A win for Colombia would guarantee their passage to the World Cup, while a loss could lead them toward a playoff. Historically, Colombia has performed well at home against Bolivia, having not conceded a goal in seven consecutive qualifiers while scoring 17.

Key players to watch include Luis Díaz, the tournament’s leading scorer, and team captain James Rodríguez. The squad also sees the return of striker Dayro Moreno from Once Caldas, along with international players such as Dávinson Sánchez, Richard Ríos, Jefferson Lerma, and Jhon Arias.

On Bolivia’s side, Coach Óscar Villegas leads a team currently in eighth place with 17 points. They need to avoid a loss to keep their World Cup hopes alive. The lineup features experienced goalkeeper Carlos Lampe and 17-year-old forward Moisés Paniagua, who will team up with Carmelo Algarañaz in the attack.

This match coincides with other important games, including Paraguay vs. Ecuador in Asunción, Argentina vs. Venezuela in Buenos Aires, and Uruguay vs. Peru in Montevideo. This scheduling aims for fairness among competing teams. In Barranquilla, there’s a strong sense of anticipation as supporters hope to see Colombia secure its World Cup spot, set to take place across North America.

Probable lineups:
– Colombia: Camilo Vargas; Andrés Román, Dávinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Richard Ríos; Jhon Arias, James Rodríguez, Luis Díaz, Jhon Córdoba. Coach: Néstor Lorenzo.
– Bolivia: Carlos Lampe; Diego Medina, Luis Haquin, José Sagredo, Leonardo Zabala, Roberto Fernández; Gabriel Villamil, Moisés Villarroel, Henry Vaca; Carmelo Algarañaz, Moisés Paniagua. Coach: Óscar Villegas.