Colombia’s national team has not won in their last six games, affecting their position in the Conmebol Qualifiers and risking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They are set to play Bolivia, who also need a win to keep their hopes alive for the tournament. This matchup is expected to be highly competitive.
Bolivia remains a competitive team, despite not being a top favorite in CONMEBOL. Their recent win against Chile gives them a slight chance of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, an event they haven’t participated in since 1994. Coach Oscar Villegas may depend on players like Miguel Terceros and Carmelo Algarañaz to achieve victory, which would substantially improve La Verde’s chances of making the playoffs.
As they enter Matchday 17 against Bolivia, Colombia aims to end their draw streak and secure a place in the 2026 World Cup. However, they will be without Daniel Muñoz, who is out due to yellow card accumulation. Despite his absence, the team is in good shape, with players like Luis Diaz, Jhon Arias, and Richard Rios ready to lead the effort.
What happens if Colombia beat Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?
A win for Colombia would secure them a direct spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing them to return after missing the 2022 edition. This match could be one of James Rodriguez’s final chances to play in the tournament, following his statement in July 2025. For Bolivia, defeating Colombia would complicate their path towards a playoff spot; they need to win against Brazil and hope Venezuela loses both remaining games.
Luis Diaz of Colombia celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal.
What happens if Colombia and Bolivia tie in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?
If today’s match ends in a draw, both teams will receive one point. For Colombia, this could still lead to qualification for the 2026 World Cup, but only if Venezuela loses against Argentina.
For Bolivia, the situation is more complicated. They would need Venezuela to lose today and in their match on September 9. Additionally, Bolivia must secure a win against Brazil to keep their playoff hopes alive.
What happens if Colombia lose to Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?
If Colombia loses to Bolivia, La Verde would gain three points, bringing their total to 20. However, they would still depend on the Venezuelan team to lose or draw in order to remain in playoff contention. Colombia would not be out of the running for a direct spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup; they could still qualify directly by defeating Venezuela on Matchday 18, which is scheduled for September 9, 2025.