Colombia failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. It was the first time in 20 years they missed the tournament. In 2026, they return to Group K with Portugal, Uzbekistan and the Intercontinental Playoff 1 winner. Here is Colombia's full preview.
THE 2022 ABSENCE
Colombia's absence from the 2022 FIFA World Cup 2026 Colombia Preview shocked South American football. They finished seventh in CONMEBOL qualifying, failing to earn a direct berth. The 2022 squad that should have been their generation's statement tournament never got to play on the biggest stage.
That absence drives motivation in 2026. The players who missed out will not take this opportunity for granted.
COLOMBIA'S PLAYING STYLE
Colombia play attractive, possession-based football with a strong attacking philosophy. Their squads across multiple generations have produced world-class creative midfielders, skilful wide players and productive strikers.
The 2026 squad includes players from major European leagues. Their attacking cohesion and creative combination play makes them one of the more entertaining teams to watch in the group stage.
COLOMBIA'S GROUP
Group K: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, IC PO-1 Winner.
Colombia's group schedule:
MD1: Uzbekistan vs. Colombia, June 17, Mexico City
MD2: Colombia vs. IC PO-1 Winner, June 23, Guadalajara
MD3: Portugal vs. Colombia, June 27
Colombia play their first two games in Mexico. Mexico City and Guadalajara are cities with significant Colombian communities. The atmosphere in both games will have noticeable Colombian support.
THE PORTUGAL FINAL MATCHDAY
Colombia vs. Portugal in the final group matchday is a genuine quality matchup. Both teams will likely have already secured advancement. The focus shifts to who tops the group. For Colombia, finishing above Portugal would be a statement result and provide a more favorable bracket path.
KEY PLAYERS
James Rodríguez was the face of Colombian football for a generation. He won the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup. His involvement in 2026 depends on his fitness and form at age 33.
The new generation includes players from La Liga, Premier League and German Bundesliga clubs. Colombian football has maintained a consistent pipeline of European-based talent through youth development.
WHAT COLOMBIA NEED TO DO
Colombia's minimum target is the Round of 32. Their realistic target is the Round of 16 or quarterfinals. A deep run in 2026 after missing 2022 entirely would restore pride and signal that Colombian football is back among the global elite.
The matches in Mexico City and Guadalajara give Colombia something approaching a home atmosphere in the group stage. The final game against Portugal in the last matchday may decide who leads the group. That is a prestigious battle for Colombia to be involved in.