Nicknamed ‘El Viejo Willy’ (The Old Willy), Ortiz possessed exceptional skill—comparable in stature to Lionel Messi and as lethal as Cristiano Ronaldo. He made a lasting impact in Colombian soccer, though he never played for an international club or in a World Cup.

Ortiz is an outgoing and charismatic figure, full of soccer stories. Firm in his beliefs, he shared his perspectives on James Rodriguez in an exclusive interview with Bolavip, during an event created by DirecTV leading up to the World Cup.

Beyond discussing Colombia’s prospects in the tournament, Ortiz addressed James’ move to the MLS, considering it a ‘mistake’ for the Colombian star to join Minnesota United.

James made a ‘mistake’ by joining Minnesota United

Bolavip: Do you think it was a mistake for James Rodriguez to play in the United States before the World Cup, knowing the coach didn’t really want him?

Willington Ortiz: I think the mistake is when a coach doesn’t want you and you still go to that team. You’re not part of his group or the players he trusts, so he’s not going to play you because you’re not his choice. That’s the mistake.

Colombia won’t rely solely on James

Bolavip: What do you think is really going to happen in this World Cup? Do you think these friendlies are a real test, or are they just to measure strength?

Ortiz: Well, friendlies are a test and you have to measure strength, but when friendlies are played close to the final stages, when the competition is about to start, they are very risky and complicated. Why? Because a soccer player doesn’t perform the same way when there’s still a long time left as when there’s very little time left. And if you play against a strong national team, you can lose, you can win, or you can draw. That’s what happens in a soccer game.

I believe the Colombia national team has elite players—there are top-10 players competing in tournaments like the Champions League that’s being played now, and in South American competitions like the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana. So, we have the players.

I think the coach has options and can build a system that works, whether we have James or not, because everyone is worried since James isn’t playing. He’s at a club where the coach doesn’t want him, didn’t bring him in, so he doesn’t play—just a few minutes. It’s not serious, disrespecting a player of his caliber.

It’s complicated, but Colombia have very good players, and I think people need to be patient because we have a good team and will put in a very strong performance at the World Cup.

Ortiz’s prediction for Colombia in the World Cup

Bolavip: Speaking of that strong performance, how far do you think Colombia will go?

Ortiz: I think they’ll be in the top eight. I believe they’ll make the quarterfinals. This team has what it takes, has very good players, and I think it can reach the top eight.

Bolavip: Which player do you think needs to be in top condition to lead the team into those top eight? Or do you think it’s more of a collective effort?

Ortiz: It has to be collective. A soccer team is collective—it has to be. You can’t rely on just one player. Because if a striker is doing well and scoring, but the defense is poor and concedes two goals, you lose and it’s useless. So everyone has to perform well, and all the players we have are elite. I think we have a very good team.

Colombia’s best player and World Cup nostalgia

Bolavip: Speaking about the current form of these Colombian players, and considering you’ve been described as one of, if not the best, in Colombia, who do you think is the nation’s best player right now?

Ortiz: Right now, it’s Luis Diaz. He’s the one performing best. Hopefully he stays healthy, arrives at the World Cup in good shape, and helps us have a strong performance.

Bolavip: Considering what you said about not having had the chance to play in a World Cup, when you watch past World Cups and Colombia’s performances, do you feel anything in particular?

Ortiz: Of course, there’s a sense of sadness because you do everything possible to get there, and sometimes you just can’t. Time passes, and you didn’t get the chance, so it brings a feeling of nostalgia.

World Cup predictions and Messi-Ronaldo’s farewell

Bolavip: Let’s talk about favorites to win the World Cup. Which teams do you think are the strongest candidates?

Ortiz: There are about three teams I see as favorites: Spain, France, and Germany. Those three.

Bolavip: And finally, talking about two major players who are nearing the end of their international careers, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—do you think Argentina, with Messi, or Portugal, have a chance to go far in this World Cup?

Ortiz: Historically, teams don’t repeat as champions every four years—at least I don’t think they have. Argentina play very well, and Messi is excellent, but I don’t think they’ll repeat as champions. I think it will be someone else. As for Portugal with Cristiano, they have a very good team. They could get close, because they still have that ambition—they haven’t won it yet. Argentina already have, twice.

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH WILLINGTON ORTIZ ON BOLAVIP US:

Minnesota United are in 11th place of the Western Conference right now. They have just four points in three games. However, a win could put them as high as sixth if other results help their case. It’s an important game altogether for them, so having Rodriguez available is great news.

The Vancouver Whitecaps are third winning all three games so far. In fact, they have scored eight goals and just allowed one. Hence, it’s a good defense and a top offense. Minnesota has struggled scoring just four goals while allowing five.

The Whitecaps have a star too

At 36 years old, World Cup champion Thomas Muller is still a game-changer in the MLS. Muller will start for the Whitecaps, and with him on the field, danger is always there. Muller’s high IQ allow him to still be a factor despite losing physicality. Also, he was never the fastest player, but he’s always been one of the smartest.

The Whitecaps will still not count on captain Ryan Gauld, who continues to recover from an arthroscopic debridement on his left knee. He is expected to make a full, healthy return by April. Still, the Whitecaps are a very powerful team even if Gauld doesn’t play.

James vs Muller is an incredible duel for hardcore fans

Both guys had their primes between 2013 and 2018, but both have kept what made them elite players back in the day: their brain and educated feet. James always exceled at making unseen plays thanks to his creativity and magical left foot.

Muller‘s biggest strengths have always been his mentality, game IQ, and killer instinct. Those features still remain. Both the Whitecaps and United know their chances of success come from relying on their stars.

[Watch Club America vs Minnesota United live in the USA on Fubo]

Club America’s Leagues Cup campaign is already under pressure after a disappointing start that saw them settle for a 1-1 draw and lose on penalties in their opening match. With no margin for error, Las Aguilas now face a must-win situation to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Standing in their way is a confident Minnesota United side that opened with a dominant 4-1 win and is aiming to secure qualification with another strong performance, fully aware of the challenge posed by one of Mexico’s biggest clubs.

When will the Club America vs Minnesota United match be played?

Club America face Minnesota United this Saturday, August 2, in a Matchday 2 showdown of the 2025 Leagues Cup league stage, with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 PM (ET).

Club America vs Minnesota United: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Club America vs Minnesota United in the USA

Tune in to Fubo to catch the 2025 Leagues Cup showdown between Club America and Minnesota United in the USA. Other options: FS1, Univision, TUDN, MLS Season Pass, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue.

Following the win, Minnesota’s social media account shared a celebratory post on Instagram with the caption “Pink Phony Club,” a nod to Chappell Roan’s hit song “Pink Pony Club,” and a clear jab at Miami’s signature color.

Beckham, who also serves as Miami’s president, responded to the post, writing, “Show a little respect @mnufc be elegant in triumph.” His comment has gathered more than 2,000 likes.

However, that wasn’t the only jab at Miami. Another post featured an image of a banner reading, “History Over Hype, Culture Over Cash,” alluding to the Loons’ longer tenure in Major League Soccer and more modest spending compared to their opponents.

Inter Miami are struggling

The 4-1 result marked Messi’s largest loss since joining MLS two years ago. It was their fourth defeat in their last five matches, their only win coming last week against NY Red Bull. Currently Miami sit fourth in the Eastern Conference and have conceded 15 goals, the joint-most among the top 10. They now trail Minnesota United in the overall standings, even with a game in hand.

Coach Javier Mascherano has taken responsibility for the dip in form, saying it is on him if the players are not responding. If Miami allows more than two goals against San Jose on Wednesday, it would be their worst six-game defensive stretch in club history, surpassing a mark from 2021.

The results have left Mascherano under pressure. With Messi, Suarez, Alba, and Busquets on the roster, expectations were high following last season’s Supporters’ Shield and a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup. So far, the results have fallen short.

[Watch Minnesota United vs Inter Miami live in the USA on Apple TV]

Inter Miami secured a crucial 4-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, reigniting their push for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. The win, led by Lionel Messi, provided a much-needed morale boost for the Florida team.

Inter next game will be against Minnesota United, who sit second in the Western Conference with 19 points, trailing Vancouver Whitecaps by seven. A win for Minnesota would help them narrow that gap as they look to climb closer to the top of the West.

When will the Minnesota United vs Inter Miami match be played?

Minnesota United take on Inter Miami this Saturday, May 10, in the Matchday 12 of the 2025 MLS season, with kickoff scheduled for 4:30 PM (ET).

Minnesota United vs Inter Miami: Time by State in the USA

ET: 4:30 PM

CT: 3:30 PM

MT: 2:30 PM

PT: 1:30 PM

How to watch Minnesota United vs Inter Miami in the USA

Tune in to MLS League Pass on Apple TV to catch the 2025 MLS regular season showdown between Minnesota United and Inter Miami, live in the USA.

With 43 goals and 25 assists in 53 matches for Miami, the Argentine icon continues to perform at an elite level. His presence on the pitch remains a game-changer, making every Inter Miami match a must-watch event.

The match is set to kick off at 3:30 p.m. CT at Allianz Field, where Lionel Messi and Inter will face a tough road test against Minnesota United. With Messi joined by former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, the visitors bring plenty of quality, and the home side will need to stay disciplined to contain their dynamic attack.

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup

Inter Miami will take the field without Luis Suárez, who is unavailable due to personal reasons, as confirmed by coach Javier Mascherano. Youngster Allen Obando is expected to step into the starting XI in his place.

• Inter Miami: Óscar Ustari, Marcelo Weigandt, Gonzalo Luján, Noah Allen, Fernando Redondo, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia, Benjamin Cremaschi, Lionel Messi.

With Busquets anchoring the midfield and Messi leading the attack, Miami will look to maintain its aggressive, possession-based style despite the absence of Suárez.

Messi has recorded four goals and two assists in seven league appearances, in addition to five goals and one assist in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where he has led Inter Miami to the semifinals.

Minnesota United: Can they contain Messi?

Minnesota United understands that limiting Messi’s influence is key to securing a result. Their backline will need to remain compact and disciplined, closing down space and avoiding the costly mistakes that the Argentine thrives on exploiting. Containing Messi may be the goal — but few teams have managed to do so effectively.

[Watch LAFC vs Minnesota United live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

Los Angeles FC opened their season with an unexpected 2-1 loss to the Colorado Rapids in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup, a result that caught many off guard given Colorado’s underdog status.

Looking to bounce back and make a stronger push in the MLS, LAFC are setting its sights on competing for the title this year. Their next challenge comes in the form of Minnesota United, a team eager for redemption after reaching the 2024 Conference semifinals, only to be knocked out by the eventual champions, the LA Galaxy.

When will the LAFC vs Minnesota United match be played?

LAFC take on Minnesota United this Saturday, February 22, in the Matchday 1 of the 2025 MLS season, with kickoff scheduled for 4:30 PM (ET).

LAFC vs Minnesota United: Time by State in the USA

ET: 4:30 PM

CT: 3:30 PM

MT: 2:30 PM

PT: 1:30 PM

How to watch LAFC vs Minnesota United in the USA

Tune in to Fubo, which offers a free trial, to catch the 2025 MLS regular season showdown between LAFC and Minnesota United live in the USA. Other options are MLS Season Pass, FOX, FOX Deportes, DirecTV Stream and Sling Blue.

[Watch Minnesota United vs Necaxa live in the USA on Apple TV]

Minnesota United stumbled out of the gate in the Leagues Cup, suffering a critical loss in their opening match. With the tournament’s group stage offering just two chances to secure a spot in the knockout rounds, a defeat on the first Matchday could spell disaster for the Minnesota squad. Their path to advancement now hinges on a must-win scenario, as they prepare for their crucial clash against Necaxa.

Necaxa, coming off a rocky start in Liga MX, will enter this match with added motivation. A victory would guarantee their progression to the next stage of the Leagues Cup, regardless of the outcomes on the final Matchday. With high stakes and both teams needing a win, expect an intense showdown as Minnesota United looks to salvage their tournament hopes.

When will the Minnesota United vs Necaxa match be played?

Minnesota United are gearing up to face Necaxa in a thrilling Matchday 2 showdown of the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage this Tuesday, July 30. The high-stakes action is set to begin at 9:00 PM (ET).

Minnesota United vs Necaxa: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Minnesota United vs Necaxa in the USA

Don’t miss the intense 2024 Leagues Cup clash as Minnesota United take on Necaxa, streaming live on Apple TV with the MLS Season Pass.

[Watch Seattle Sounders FC vs Minnesota United live in the USA on Apple TV]

The Leagues Cup, Concacaf’s premier tournament uniting Liga MX and MLS teams, is back with a bang, and the opening games have already set the stage for some electrifying matchups. One standout clash to watch is the showdown between the Seattle Sounders and Minnesota United.

The Sounders, currently holding down the sixth spot in the Western Conference, are fiercely battling to secure their place in the postseason. Meanwhile, Minnesota United, just four points behind in ninth place, is eager to close the gap and shake up the standings. Expect a high-intensity game as both sides bring their best to this crucial Leagues Cup encounter.

When will the Seattle Sounders FC vs Minnesota United match be played?

Seattle Sounders FC are set to clash with Minnesota United in the Matchday 1 of the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage this Friday, July 26, with kickoff scheduled for 10:00 PM (ET).

Seattle Sounders FC vs Minnesota United: Time by State in the USA

ET: 10:00 PM
CT: 9:00 PM
MT: 8:00 PM
PT: 7:00 PM

How to watch Seattle Sounders FC vs Minnesota United in the USA

Catch the electrifying 2024 Leagues Cup showdown between Seattle Sounders FC and Minnesota United, streaming live on Apple TV with the MLS Season Pass.

[Watch Minnesota United vs Seattle Sounders online free in the US on Fubo]

This match sets the stage for a clash with playoff implications. On one side, it will be the Seattle Sounders, who are currently holding onto a coveted postseason berth in the Western Conference. Securing 36 points, they currently reside in the 4th position, but face the pressure of several closely trailing teams.

Among these contenders is none other than Minnesota United, positioned at 9th place with 31 points. This rank necessitates their participation in a playoff for the postseason. Presented with the chance to overcome a direct adversary in the battle for the coveted top 7 positions, Minnesota United are determined not to squander this valuable opportunity.

When will Minnesota United vs Seattle Sounders be played?

The game for the Matchday 28 of the 2023 MLS between Minnesota United and Seattle Sounders will be played today, August 27 at 4:30 PM (ET).

Minnesota United vs Seattle Sounders: Time by State in the US

ET: 4:30 PM
CT: 3:30 PM
MT: 2:30 PM
PT: 1:30 PM

How to watch Minnesota United vs Seattle Sounders

This 2023 MLS game between Minnesota United and Seattle Sounders will be broadcast in the United States on Fubo (free trial) and Apple TV. Other options: Foxsports.com, FOX Sports App, FOX Network, FOX Deportes, SiriusXM FC.

[Watch Toluca vs Minnesota United online in the US on Apple TV]

The performance of Mexican teams in the Leagues Cup 2023 has not met the initial expectations. Many fans anticipated that a greater number of Liga MX teams would progress to the round of 16. However, Toluca managed to achieve this feat, despite not being regarded as one of the favorites. Nonetheless, the Mexican teams have displayed remarkable resilience both during the group stage and in the round of 32, showcasing a strong presence.

They are enthusiastic about maintaining this momentum and validating their capabilities. Their upcoming opponents will be Minnesota United, a team that encountered significant challenges en route to the round of 16. After persevering through demanding matches, they are determined not to be excluded from the further stages of the tournament.

When will Toluca vs Minnesota United be played?

The game for the 2023 Leagues Cup round of 16 between Toluca and Minnesota United will be played this Tuesday, August 8 at 8:00 PM (ET).

Toluca vs Minnesota United: Time by State in the US

ET: 8:00 PM
CT: 7:00 PM
MT: 6:00 PM
PT: 5:00 PM

How to watch Toluca vs Minnesota United in the US

This game for the 2023 Leagues Cup round of 16 between Toluca and Minnesota United will be broadcast in the United States on Apple TV.