Díaz and Suárez to Lead Colombia in Crucial Friendlies Ahead of World Cup
Bogotá, March 20, 2026 – Colombia’s national team will be spearheaded by Bayern Munich forward Luis Díaz and Sporting Lisbon striker Luis Suárez in upcoming friendly matches against Croatia and France. These games, set to take place in the United States, are a vital part of the team’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Squad Announcement and Key Players
Manager Néstor Lorenzo has announced a 26-man squad featuring a blend of experienced stars and returning players. Alongside Díaz and Suárez, the roster includes Minnesota playmaker James Rodríguez, Palmeiras midfielder Jhon Arias, Galatasaray center-back Davinson Sánchez, and Crystal Palace full-back Daniel Muñoz.
Notably, Juventus defender Juan David Cabal makes his return to the national team after a year-long absence due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Cabal last played for Colombia in October 2024 before his injury sidelined him.
Match Schedule and World Cup Preparation
Colombia will first face Croatia in Orlando on March 26th, followed by a match against France in Washington D.C. On March 29th. These friendlies represent Lorenzo’s final opportunity to assess his players before finalizing the squad for the World Cup, where Colombia is grouped with Portugal, Uzbekistan, and a yet-to-be-determined team from the playoff stage.
Full Squad List
- Goalkeepers: Álvaro Montero (Vélez Sarsfield-ARG), Camilo Vargas (Atlas-MEX), David Ospina (Atlético Nacional)
- Defenders: Daniel Muñoz (Crystal Palace-GBR), Davinson Sánchez (Galatasaray-TUR), Déiver Machado (Nantes-FRA), Jhon Lucumí (Bologna-ITA), Johan Mojica (Mallorca-ESP), Juan David Cabal (Juventus-ITA), Santiago Arias (Independiente-ARG), Yerson Mosquera (Wolverhampton-GBR)
- Midfielders: Carlos Gómez (Vasco da Gama – BRA), Gustavo Puerta (Racing de Santander – ESP), James Rodríguez (Minnesota United – USA), Jaminton Campaz (Rosario Central – ARG), Jefferson Lerma (Crystal Palace-ENG), Jorge Carrascal, Jhon Arias (Palmeiras), Juan Fernando Quintero, Kevin Castano, Richard Rios
- Forwards: Carlos Gomez, Jhon Cordoba, Johan Carbonero, Luis Díaz (Bayern Munich), Luis Suárez (Sporting Lisbon), Rafael Santos Borre
Recent Form of Key Players
Luis Díaz has been in exceptional form for Bayern Munich this season, contributing significantly with goals and assists across all competitions. Luis Suárez continues to be a prolific scorer for Sporting Lisbon.
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