Colombia faces Uzbekistan in World Cup 2026 opener as Rodríguez returns to global stage

Colombia returned to the FIFA World Cup with ambitions to write a new chapter in its football history after missing the 2022 Qatar tournament. Led by manager Néstor Lorenzo since 2022, the Colombian squad combines the experience of historical figures with a fresh new generation, beginning their campaign against Uzbekistan at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca.

The Colombian team finished third in South American qualifying, just one point behind Ecuador, securing their place with notable victories over Brazil and Argentina. The squad will lean heavily on veteran captain James Rodríguez, 34, the Colombian national team's all-time leading World Cup goalscorer with six goals from the 2014 Brazil tournament when Colombia reached the quarterfinals. Despite criticism surrounding his form and recent performance, Rodríguez remains central to Colombia's hopes. The team also features Luis Díaz, the Bayern Munich star who won both the Bundesliga and German Cup this season, making his World Cup debut at age 29. Overall, 17 Colombian players will compete in their first World Cup, many plying their trade in Europe's top leagues.

Uzbekistan represents one of four nations making their World Cup debut in this tournament, alongside Cape Verde, Curaçao, and Jordan. The Central Asian side boasts a solid qualification record, winning the second group in Asian qualifying with six victories, three draws, and one loss, surpassing regional powers United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Managed by Italian coach Fabio Cannavaro, Uzbekistan will not be intimidated by Colombia's higher FIFA ranking of 14th. The squad features notable talents including captain and striker Eldor Shomurodov, Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov, and midfielder Aziz Ganiev.

Canavaro's confidence was evident in comments to FIFA, stating "We don't have to fear anyone." The challenge facing Uzbekistan includes competing at the Estadio Azteca's altitude of over 2,200 meters, though early tournament results suggest upsets are possible—Cape Verde earned an unexpected 0-0 draw against defending European champions Spain. Colombia, fresh from losing to Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the Copa América final, seek redemption on Mexican soil.