Néstor Lorenzo on Colombia’s Match vs. Uzbekistan: ‘Fight for This Shirt’

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Hooligan Soccer

·17 Juni 2026

Néstor Lorenzo on Colombia’s Match vs. Uzbekistan: ‘Fight for This Shirt’

Colombia opens its 2026 World Cup campaign against Uzbekistan in Group K at Estadio Ciudad de México, a matchup that, on paper, heavily favors the South Americans. Their opponents may be making their World Cup debut, but they arrive with a familiar face on the touchline: world champion Fabio Cannavaro.

For Colombia, this tournament feels like unfinished business. After missing out on Qatar 2022, Los Cafeteros are back on football’s biggest stage for the first time since Russia 2018. Eight years away from the World Cup have only increased the hunger and belief within the squad, especially in a challenging group that also features Portugal and Congo.

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The last time Colombia truly captured the world’s attention was in Brazil 2014, when a young James Rodríguez carried the team to the quarterfinals. Twelve years later, James arrives in North America at 35 years old, fully aware this could be his Last Dance. The difference now is that he has a superstar partner alongside him in Bayern Munich winger Luis Díaz, giving Colombia hope of once again becoming everyone’s favorite underdog.

“James has continued to grow physically and, of course, his talent and qualities make him a different kind of player. Without needing to cover as many kilometers as other footballers, he’s capable of making the difference, bringing clarity to the game, and solving important situations within a match.”Néstor Lorenzo, Colombia manager, on James Rodriguez

Lorenzo’s Message to the Squad

“I want them to enjoy it, to be grateful, and to fight for the Colombia shirt. We return to this World Cup after eight years, and honestly, we’re full of hope and eager to do things well. That’s the message every single day.” — Néstor Lorenzo

Respecting the New Kids on the Block

“The tactical and strategic plan is clear. Football is really two games: one defensive and one offensive. Uzbekistan’s characteristics are very clear to us, and we’ll try to approach the match in the best possible way.

We’ll look to impose ourselves in individual battles, both offensively and defensively, and execute our game plan as efficiently as possible. We know it will be a demanding opponent, but we’re prepared to compete and play an intelligent match in every area of the field.” — Néstor Lorenzo

And while Colombia may be favored, Lorenzo isn’t buying into the idea of an easy night.

“World Cups keep showing us that there are no small teams and nobody can be underestimated. Uzbekistan has achieved very good results against important opponents. Our challenge tomorrow is to approach the match properly and be capable of overcoming them.”

Uzbekistan’s Hope: Khusanov

As for the Asians, who are preparing for the first World Cup match in their country’s history, much of the spotlight falls on Abdukodir Khusanov.

The Manchester City center-back joined from Lens in 2025 for around $53 million and is still only 22 years old. If Uzbekistan wants to avoid becoming just another victim of World Cup reality, Khusanov will likely have to spend most of the evening putting out fires started by James and Luis Díaz.

The Hooligan Take

Colombia 2-1 Uzbekistan

Yes, Colombia should win.No, it probably won’t be as comfortable as everyone expects.And if World Cup history has taught us anything, it’s that debutants rarely read the script.

What Time Does Colombia vs Uzbekistan Kick Off?