Colombia is set to face the Costa Rica national football team at Estadio El Campín in their second-to-last friendly before the World Cup, aiming to bounce back following consecutive losses to Croatia and France.
Ataque Futbolero has reported on their official X handle that the Colombia national football team has revealed its third official squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they ramp up preparations for the tournament.
Under the leadership of Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia qualified for the World Cup by finishing third in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, achieving seven victories, seven draws, and four losses across 18 games. After missing the 2022 World Cup, Los Cafeteros have made a successful return to the sport’s premier event.
They have been placed in Group K alongside Uzbekistan, DR Congo, and Portugal.
Conversely, Costa Rica approaches this match following an underwhelming qualifying effort. La Tricolor did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup, finishing third in their CONCACAF qualifying group with only one win in six attempts.
With the World Cup on the horizon, Colombia sees this match as a crucial chance to regain trust and refine their preparations for the return to the global competition.
Team News
David Ospina did not play in Colombia’s defeats in March, but he is expected to return to the starting lineup for this match.
In attacking roles, captain James Rodriguez is anticipated to play a key role behind the striker, with Luis Suarez likely to lead following an impressive season, netting 36 goals in 49 appearances for Sporting Lisbon.
On the other hand, Costa Rica may implement significant changes from the squad that suffered a 5-0 loss to Iran in March.
Patrick Sequeira is expected to keep his place as the only goalkeeper with caps, but other positions may see alterations.
Possible Lineups
Colombia possible starting lineup:
Ospina; Munoz, Sanchez, Lucumi, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Suarez
Costa Rica possible starting lineup:
Sequeira; Mitchell, Salazar, Villalobos, Vargas, Araya; Mora, Galo, Soto; Zamora, Alcocer
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV Stream |
| Kick-off Time | 00:00 (WAT) |
Match predictions
Softfootball predicts Colombia 2-0 Costa Rica
Colombia heads into this match in better form, and with local support, they are expected to secure a significant victory.
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