A Captain’s Tears: James Rodríguez Leads Colombia Towards world Cup Qualification
The emotion of Colombia’s hard-fought qualification campaign culminated in a powerful image: captain James Rodríguez celebrating from the substitute bench,tears streaming down his face. The victory marked a important step towards erasing the disappointment of missing the 2022 World Cup, a particularly painful outcome for Colombia’s experienced generation of players.
James, the team’s number 10, played a key role in securing the result, scoring the opening goal before being substituted in the 61st minute. He then shared the anxious final moments with his teammates and the coaching staff, visibly moved as the final whistle blew. The moment signaled what is hoped to be a prelude to his third World Cup appearance. His dedication and passion have been consistently recognized and appreciated by all.
Defender Johan Mojica eloquently captured the team’s sentiment regarding their captain’s emotional display. ”He loves the selection, just like everyone, but he is our badge, our soul of the selection and we must keep respect and value what he has done, that’s why he cries, because he feels this classification as no one,” Mojica explained.
James himself expressed his profound pride in the achievement.”It’s a big pride. I always wanted to give everything in every game that I played, I always wanted to leave everything and good, until the last day I will leave absolutely everything,” he stated, adding with conviction, “the effort was worth it.”
With qualification not yet mathematically secured, Colombia currently sits fifth in the qualifying standings with 25 points. they will travel to Venezuela next Tuesday to complete their campaign. Bolivia, in eighth place with 17 points, remains their only competitor for a potential playoff spot.
Looking ahead, James reflected on a childhood dream fulfilled. “There are 3 World Cups, when I was a child I dreamed of these things, we always want to play well, this team is hungry,” he concluded, embodying the spirit of a team determined to succeed.
