Colombia face Croatia at Camping World Stadium in Orlando in a 2026 international friendly that will be broadcast in the USA as the game serves as preparation for the upcoming World Cup, which will be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico. Both teams arrive with high expectations and ambitions of being contenders, making this a key opportunity to solidify their lineups.
[Watch Colombia vs Croatia live in the USA on Fubo]
Colombia come into this match after a strong CONMEBOL qualifying campaign, finishing third with 28 points, only behind Argentina and Ecuador. They have shown consistency and competitiveness, and in their last outing, they secured a convincing 3-0 win over Australia in a friendly, leaving a positive impression on both ends of the field.
Croatia, meanwhile, are preparing for their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, having finished second and third in 2018 and 2022. Zlatko Dalic’s squad, still led by 40-year-old midfielder Luka Modric, qualified dominantly by topping UEFA Group L with a six-point margin, winning seven of eight matches.
Colombia confirmed lineup
Nestor Lorenzo will go with a strong lineup for this friendly, using it as an important test ahead of what is to come. He will rely on the strong form of forward Luis Diaz, who is enjoying an outstanding campaign with Bayern Munich, while captain James Rodriguez is set to reach his 123rd international appearance. However, they have a notable absence, as defender Yerry Mina is not part of the squad.
James Rodriguez of Colombia
In addition to Yerry Mina, Portilla and Asprilla were not called up. Colombia will line up as follows: Camilo Vargas; Daniel Munoz, Davinson Sanchez, Jhon Lucumi, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Richard Rios, Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez; Luis Diaz, Luis Suarez.
Croatia confirmed lineup
Croatia also arrive with important absences and hope to have those players available for the World Cup. Still, they are expected to adjust accordingly, as Gvardiol and Kovacic are out due to injury.
Croatia will line up as follows: Dominik Livakovic; Nikola Vlasic, Igor Matanovic, Martin Erlic, Mario Pongracic; Nikola Moro, Petar Sucic, Luka Vuskovic, Mario Pasalic; Ivan Perisic, Marco Pasalic.
