Colombia is set to face New Zealand in a friendly match as part of its preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The game will take place on Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at 7:30 PM (local time). This match presents a valuable opportunity for the Colombian national team to evaluate players ahead of the upcoming international challenges.
Match Details
This encounter will help the coaching staff assess players who have seen limited action during qualifying rounds. Head coach Néstor Lorenzo emphasized the importance of this friendly in a recent statement.
Coach’s Insights
Néstor Lorenzo remarked, “The chance to compete allows us to review some players who have had fewer minutes. While we’re evaluating talent, we’re not finalizing the squad just yet.” He added that the focus is on strengthening team cohesion and providing playing time to those who are less experienced.
Player Availability
- Nicolás Ríos has recovered from an ankle injury and is available for selection.
- James Rodríguez will participate based on the coach’s assessment of the team’s needs during the match.
Selection Considerations
Lorenzo discussed the omission of Jhon Jader Durán, a player who has been significant but hasn’t been included in past call-ups. “He is under constant observation, but due to limited playtime, he lacks the continuity required for national team competition,” Lorenzo explained.
Training Challenges
The team faces time constraints for training compared to club levels. Lorenzo noted that they cannot focus on aspects like set pieces as extensively as desired. “We need to utilize the players correctly during crucial moments of the game,” he stated.
Viewing Options
Fans can watch the friendly match between Colombia and New Zealand live through various platforms:
- Canal RCN App
- RCN Deportes YouTube
- Ditu
- Gol Caracol YouTube
- RCN TV
- Caracol TV
This match serves as an important test ahead of the national team’s preparations for future competitions, making it a must-watch for Colombian soccer fans.
