Jhon Battles for 2026 World Cup Spot | Suárez Competition

Bogotá – Colombia’s national team prepares for crucial friendly matches against Croatia and France in the United States, with manager Néstor Lorenzo facing a compelling forward line competition as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Luis Díaz of Bayern Munich and Luis Suárez of Sporting Lisbon are confirmed leaders of the squad, according to a team announcement on March 19, 2026.

The upcoming matches, scheduled for March 26th against Croatia and March 29th against France, are integral to Colombia’s preparation for the expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Colombia is placed in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and a team to be determined through a playoff round.

While Díaz’s position appears secure, the competition for a starting role alongside him is particularly focused on Suárez and Jhon Córdoba of Krasnodar. Suárez, who joined Sporting Lisbon in July, has demonstrated strong form, scoring 23 goals in the Portuguese Liga this season, along with goals in the Portuguese Cup, League Cup, and Champions League. Córdoba has also been a consistent performer for the national team, contributing two goals in the Copa América 2024 and two in World Cup qualifying matches.

Rafael Santos Borré, currently playing for Internacional in Brazil, also remains in contention for a forward position. The selection process is further complicated by the availability of Juan Camilo “Cucho” Hernández of Real Betis, adding another dimension to Lorenzo’s tactical considerations.

The squad also includes the return of Juventus defender Juan David Cabal, who has been sidelined since October 2024 due to a cruciate ligament injury. Other key players called up by Lorenzo include James Rodríguez of Minnesota, Jhon Arias of Palmeiras, and Davinson Sánchez of Galatasaray. Yerry Mina of Cagliari is absent due to injury, as are Juan Camilo Portilla of Athletico Paranense and Cucho Hernández, who were not selected by the manager.

Goalkeepers Álvaro Montero (Vélez Sarsfield), Camilo Vargas (Atlas), and David Ospina (Atlético Nacional) have been selected for the matches. The defensive line will feature Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Déiver Machado, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica, Juan David Cabal, Santiago Arias, and Yerson Mosquera. Midfield options include James Rodríguez, Juan Fernando Quintero, Jefferson Lerma, Richard Ríos, Jhon Arias, Jorge Carrascal, Kevin Castaño, Gustavo Puerta, and Jaminton Campaz.

The Colombian Football Federation has not yet commented on the specific tactical approach for the upcoming friendlies, or the criteria Lorenzo will use to finalize the World Cup roster. The team is scheduled to continue training in the United States ahead of the match against Croatia.