James Rodriguez will start for the Colombian top spot as they kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Uzbekistan at Mexico City’s historic Estadio Azteca.
The veteran playmaker is one of the most crucial players in the Colombian team and will be in command of his nation as they face their first Group K game. This tournament marks the next step in Rodriguez’s World Cup journey that started over 10 years ago when he was one of the brightest stars of football.
James Rodriguez continues to be the leader of Colombia.
Since 2011, Rodriguez has been a regular member of Colombia’s national team, but he made his big break at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
He was just 22 years old, and scored six goals in the tournament and won the Golden Boot. His beautiful volley to Uruguay in the Round of 16 will stay etched in World Cup folklore.
That tournament was also the best World Cup performance for Colombia with them making it to the quarterfinals for the first time in the history of the World Cup.
Now, 12 years on, Rodriguez is a senior member of a team that features numerous first-timers.
Forward Luis Suárez recently pointed out how important it is for group players to be experienced in the likes of Rodriguez.
They bring us a sense of calm, and the fact that they have been around other World Cups, I believe,” said Suárez.
The captain is not just a batsman; younger players are following him and come to him for leadership and guidance, during the tournament.
Colombia Return After Missing 2022 World Cup
After missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Colombia are looking to have another run at the bout in 2026.
17 of the 26-man squad have never played in a World Cup match, with top attacker Luis Diaz among them.
Head coach Néstor Lorenzo is coming into the match with his entire squad healthy. Striker Jhon Córdoba is looking to come back from knee issues and may be able to play if required.
Uzbekistan are ready for their historic World Cup debut.Uzbekistan gear up for their historic World Cup debut.
The match will be historic for Uzbekistan.
This is the first time in decades that the Central Asian country will take to the pitch for the World Cup.
The Uzbeks got to the World Cup with a conservative defensive style, coached by 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro. Last year, the team drew the second side with the United Arab Emirates and booked a berth in the tournament.
Cannavaro is not in any shape to have injury concerns and will be able to name a full 11-man squad for the historic moment.
Colombia Confirmed Lineup
Colombia:
Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Jhon Lucumí, Davinson Sánchez, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Gustavo Puerta, Jhon Arias; James Rodriguez, Luis Suárez, Luis Díaz.
Uzbekistan Confirmed Lineup
Uzbekistan:
Utkir Yusupov; Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Abdulla Abdullaev; Behruzjon Karimov, Otabek Shukurov, Akmal Mozgovoy, Sherzod Nasrullaev; Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Oston Urunov, Eldor Shomurodov.
It is a historic night in Mexico City!
Hoping to replicate the 2014 performance, Colombia are looking to repeat their success, while Uzbekistan will be looking to make history in their debut World Cup.
It is also another chance for James Rodriguez to contribute to his World Cup legacy as Colombia host a win to jump-start their campaign.
