Following a recent defeat to Argentina, Venezuela‘s path to a playoff spot has become more challenging. Nonetheless, they remain in control of their destiny and must secure a win in today’s World Cup Qualifiers game against Colombia. La Vinotinto face a formidable task, having gone a decade without a victory over their rivals, Los Cafeteros. Given the intense rivalry between these teams, fans can anticipate a fiercely competitive match.
Colombia, overcoming a string of poor performances, clinched their spot in the 2026 World Cup with a decisive victory over Bolivia. Yet, this triumph does not diminish their determination to defeat La Vinotinto, as they aim to conclude the qualifiers on a high note. Furthermore, securing another victory would bolster head coach Nestor Lorenzo’s standing, which fans have recently scrutinized.
Despite suffering two straight losses, Venezuela field a formidable squad capable of putting up a strong fight. With Salomon Rondon, Josef Martinez, and Jefferson Savarino at the helm, the team has transformed the Maturin stadium into a stronghold, remaining unbeaten in several matches. This quest for victory heightens the potential for an intense showdown.
Venezuela lineup vs Colombia
Venezuela head into the crucial match against Colombia with a fully fit squad, free from injuries or suspensions. Consequently, head coach Fernando Batista will make significant changes to his starting lineup, giving Josef Martinez a chance to bright in today’s game next to Salomon Rondon as they aim to secure their playoff spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Jorge Yriarte of Venezuela is challenged by Nahuel Molina of Argentina.
Considering this, La Vinotinto will play as follows in their last 2026 qualifiers game: Rafael Romo; Jon Aramburu, Nahuel Ferraresi, Wilker Angel, Miguel Navarro; Jose Martinez, Eduard Bello, Telasco Segovia; Yeferson Soteldo, Josef Martinez; Salomon Rondon.
see also
Venezuela vs Colombia LIVE: Kick off time and where to watch the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
Colombia lineup vs Venezuela
Ahead of the final game of the qualifiers, Colombia will once again be able to field Daniel Muñoz and Kevin Castaño, who missed the last game due to accumulated yellow cards. Moreover, head coach Nestor Lorenzo will make some other lineup adjustments, introducing Alvaro Angulo and Luis Suárez. Nonetheless, the team’s current top scorer, Luis Diaz, will remain in the starting lineup against Venezuela.
With this in mind, Colombia will lineup as follows: Kevin Mier; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina, Alvaro Angulo; Kevin Castaño, Richard Rios, Jefferson Lerma; Luis Diaz, Luis Suarez, James Rodriguez.
