Colombia vs Bolivia: Predictions and Betting Tips for September 5, 2025

One of the matches in the 17th round of the South American World Cup 2026 qualifiers will occur on Friday night at Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez in Barranquilla, where Colombia will face Bolivia. This match presents a favorable opportunity for the host team.

Match preview

Colombia is close to securing a spot in the World Cup, and playing against the weakest away team in the qualifiers presents a great chance. Néstor Lorenzo’s team hasn’t won since October, but facing Bolivia gives them reason to expect a return to form. Although there have been some attacking struggles lately, Colombia’s defense remains strong.

Despite missing players like Jhon Durán and Yáser Asprilla, Colombia still has a variety of attacking options. The comeback of veteran Dayro Moreno adds motivation and depth to the team. Statistically, this match in Barranquilla is favorable: Bolivia has never scored or earned points here.

Bolivia has only a theoretical chance of reaching a playoff spot, which would require an unlikely series of events, starting with this match in Colombia, where they have historically struggled. Their previous win against Chile in the last round kept their hopes alive, but that game was played at home in high altitude, where they perform best. On the road, however, they have lost 7 matches and conceded 25 goals, the poorest record in the qualifiers.

Bolivia’s away performance has been particularly poor, as they have not gained points on the road since the early 1990s. Squad absences, including the suspended Lucas Chávez and injured Ramiro Vaca, add to their challenges. Their main hope lies with the young player Miguelito, who has scored 6 goals in 10 qualifiers, but even his efforts are unlikely to turn the tide against the hosts.

Probable lineups

• Colombia: Mier, Muñoz, Sánchez, Lucumí, Borja, Ríos, Lerma, Arias, James, Córdoba, Díaz
• Bolivia: Viscarra, Medina, Jaquín, Morales, Fernández, E. Vaca, Robson Matheus, Cuéllar, Paniagua, Villamil, Miguelito

Match facts and head-to-head

• Bolivia has never earned a point or scored away to Colombia in World Cup qualifying.
• Colombia has not won in its last six qualifiers (3 draws, 3 defeats).
• Bolivia has lost all seven away matches in the current qualifiers, with a goal difference of 2:25.

Prediction

Colombia should capitalize on this favorable matchup to secure their World Cup spot. Bolivia, being the weakest away team in CONMEBOL, has slim chances of achieving a result on a ground where they have never scored. A confident home win is expected.