Coach Nestor Lorenzo Announces Colombia’s 26-Man Squad For The 2026 FIFA World Cup

The Colombian national football team has announced its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, led by veteran midfielder James Rodríguez and winger Luis Díaz as the team prepares for the tournament in North America after successfully securing qualification in September 2025.

There was great anticipation among the Colombian fanbase worldwide for the announcement by coach Nestor Lorenzo. It was speculated on who would make it into the final 26-man squad. National team captain James Rodriguez, who has not been in the best form lately, has been working hard to make the final list and come in strong this tournament.

The roster includes a mix of experienced international players and in-form club performers from across Europe and South America. Alongside Rodríguez and Díaz, the squad features key regulars such as Jefferson Lerma, Davinson Sánchez, and goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, all of whom played important roles during qualification.

One of the notable inclusions is forward Juan Camilo Hernandez, who is seen as a talent long overlooked despite multiple standout years in Spain’s La Liga. This year, “El Cucho” Hernandez was Real Betis’ top scorer in La Liga and secured them their first Champions League qualification in 20 years.

Midfielder Gustavo Puerta, who secured promotion to La Liga from La Liga 2 for Racing Santander, also earned a place in the squad, reflecting the coaching staff’s emphasis on integrating younger players into the tournament setup. Lorenzo also seems to be rewarding players for having successful seasons at their respective clubs.

The squad also includes creative options such as Juan Fernando Quintero, providing depth in attacking midfield positions. Quintero has been seen as a faithful servant to the Colombian national team, showing up in big moments during substitute appearances. He is also known as a legend at Argentinian clubs like River Plate, where he currently plays. Similar to Rodriguez, this is likely Quintero’s last World Cup.

Several notable omissions were also part of the final selection, with competition for places forcing difficult decisions ahead of the tournament. One of these omissions was Wilmar Barrios, who plays for Zenit St. Petersburg in Russia. Barrios recently secured the league title for Zenit. Rafael Santos Borré also did not make the final list. The Colombian forward has a long history with the national team, but hasn’t always been consistently strong or performed well. In his place is Juan Camilo Hernandez. The final group reflects a balance between established veterans and emerging talent as Colombia looks to make a deep run in the expanded 2026 World Cup format.

As preparations begin, attention will now turn to training camps and final tactical adjustments before the team opens its World Cup campaign. Colombia’s opening game will be against Uzbekistan on June 17, 2026, at 9 p.m. EST in Mexico. Many players will be having their last dance at the World Cup, while others will be making their debut on the biggest stage in world football.