Colombia vs Brazil possible alignment

Coach Nestor Lorenzo completed the group this Tuesday in Barranquilla.

The Colombian national team faces Brazil this Thursday, a crucial clash in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Néstor Lorenzo’s team faces the challenge and the need to win after three draws and against a rival with significant casualties.

And the startup list still has issues that need to be resolved. First, in the defensive zone, players like John Lukumi and Yerry Mina were recovered, but with the inactivity of the two injured, it limited maneuvering. Dávinson Sánchez and Carlos Cuesta, who played against Uruguay and Ecuador, are expected to remain, but are two men the coach is confident of if needed.

The other doubt lies in the midfield and two versions are in circulation. One has to do with the fact that while Lerma and Uribe are both firm and undecided, three will be in the first line of midfielders: Kevin Castano or Richard Rios. Both have good passing sensitivity and excellent mid-distance finishing, but the latter is a little more aware of the opposition as he is Palmeiras’ regular starter.

A second option would be to replace John Arias (allowed) with a creative like Karrascal or Sinistera, find a partner for James in creative work, and find a formula for Diaz and Borre as a helper or finisher.

A possible formulation would be:

Camilo Vargas; Daniel Munoz, Carlos Cuesta (Lukumi), Davinson Sanchez, Deaver Machado; Matheus Uribe, Jefferson Lerma, Ríos (Castaño or Carrascal); Rafael Santos Borre, James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz.