Lorenzo Shakes Up Lineup Revealing Potential Starting Team for Colombia at 2026 World Cup Journalist Leaks Colombia vs Australia Lineup

Colombia’s national football coach, Néstor Lorenzo, has announced his potential starting lineup for the upcoming match against Australia. This game marks Colombia’s second appearance in the November FIFA date, and Lorenzo is reportedly shaping his team with a focus on the 2026 World Cup.

Lorenzo’s Vision for the 2026 World Cup

The Argentine coach, who is 59 years old, has introduced various changes in recent friendly matches. Some players who were not usually called up for significant matches have made surprising appearances. However, for this crucial game, Lorenzo is expected to revert to more familiar names. This marks a significant moment as Colombia aims for a return to the World Cup after missing out in Qatar 2022.

Confirmed Lineup Against Australia

Journalist Paolo Arenas leaked details of the lineup expected to face Australia. After a recent win against New Zealand, where Colombia triumphed 2-1, the lineup has been adjusted. The starting eleven will include:

• Goalkeeper: Camilo Vargas
• Defenders:
  • Dávinson Sánchez (central defender)
  • Jhon Lucumí (central defender)
  • Johan Mojica (left-back)
  • Santiago Arias (right-back, replacing Daniel Muñoz)
• Midfielders:
  • Jefferson Lerma
  • Richard Ríos
  • Jhon Arias
  • James Rodríguez
• Forwards:
  • Luis Díaz
  • Luis Suárez

Vargas is considered the main goalkeeper, with options like David Ospina and Álvaro Montero available if needed. The defense will see Sánchez and Lucumí in central roles. Mojica returns to the left after handling recent fitness issues. For the right side, Arias steps in for Muñoz, who is unavailable due to a personal commitment.

Key Players to Watch

The midfield will be led by the experienced James Rodríguez, alongside Lerma, Ríos, and Arias. Upfront, Luis Díaz and Luis Suárez are set to take the lead. Suárez has gained momentum after scoring four goals in a crucial match against Venezuela, significantly boosting his chances of a starting position.

The match against Australia is scheduled for 8:30 PM local time in Colombia. After this encounter, Colombia is set to engage in additional friendly matches in 2026 against teams like France, Nigeria, or even Croatia, as part of their preparation for the upcoming World Cup.