Is James Rodriguez playing for Colombia vs Brazil in South American 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?

The South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are entering a critical stage as teams battle for coveted spots. One of the most highly anticipated matchups of Matchday 13 features Brazil hosting Colombia at the Arena BRB Mané Garrincha. For Colombia, the presence of star midfielder James Rodriguez could be a key factor.

James Rodriguez recently started for his team, Club León in Mexico, during their latest match, a defeat, without showing any signs of physical issues. For this reason, the Colombian star is expected to be in the starting lineup for tonight’s clash against Brazil.

While Colombia currently sits fourth in the standings with 19 points, they’ll look to bounce back after suffering two losses in the previous FIFA window. The team fell 3-2 against Uruguay on the road and 1-0 to Ecuador at home.

Brazil, under head coach Dorival Júnior, trails Colombia by just one point with 18. The Seleção is also eager to break their winless streak after back-to-back draws against Venezuela and Uruguay.

James Rodriguez controls the ball against Raphinha during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 Group D match between Brazil and Colombia. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Probable lineups for the clash

The Colombian national team, led by head coach Nestor Lorenzo, heads into this crucial matchup with a fully available squad. As a result, the Argentine manager is expected to field a lineup similar to the one he has consistently relied on in recent matches.

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Colombia’s probable XI: Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Cristian Borja; Jhon Arias, Richard Ríos, Jefferson Lerma, James Rodriguez; Luis Díaz, Rafael Santos Borré.

Brazil, on the other hand, will be without some key players due to injury, most notably Neymar, who was initially included in the squad but later ruled out. Real Madrid striker Endrick will replace him in the squad.

Brazil’s likely XI: Alisson; Vanderson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Guilherme Arana; Bruno Guimarães, Gerson; Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho, Vinícius Jr.

What’s next for Colombia?

Colombia’s schedule to securing a World Cup berth won’t get any easier. After facing Brazil, they’ll host Paraguay in Barranquilla on Tuesday, March 25, to close out this FIFA window. Looking ahead, Colombia resumes qualifiers in early June with a home game against Peru, followed by a tough test on the road against Argentina.