Colombia’s national team is making a resounding statement at the Copa América, showcasing authority and an audacious style of play. Their journey to the semi-finals extends their unbeaten streak to an impressive 24 games under Néstor Lorenzo. This dominant form is raising an important question in this month of high-stakes international football across both Europe and the Americas: Could Colombia genuinely be considered the best team from either continent today?
Their strong performances in the World Cup qualifiers have seamlessly translated to the Copa América stage. Their unbeaten run continues, and their developed game plan is evident. Currently third in the qualifying round, behind powerhouses Argentina and Uruguay, their consistency is mirrored in this prestigious tournament held in the United States, where they have confidently advanced to the semi-finals.
Adding to their prowess, Colombia boasts arguably the tournament’s best player in their captain, James Rodríguez. While a sense of caution prevails within the team, the growing excitement about their potential is undeniable.
As Colombian legend Falcao remarked to ESPN, “They have given us so much joy in this Copa América. Hopefully, they can go further; they are having a great tournament.”
A Distinct and Effective Style
Colombia’s approach to the game is clear and assertive. They are recognized for their attacking intent, utilizing formations that flexibly shift between 4-3-1-2 and 4-2-3-1. Regardless of the lineup, the team’s philosophy remains consistent: vertical, fast-paced football, quick ball recovery, and collective effort. They have demonstrably improved their finishing and developed a stronger sense of team personality. While minor defensive adjustments may still be needed, their lines are largely well-coordinated.
Coach Néstor Lorenzo emphasizes the team-first mentality: “Each player has to play for the eleven, for the team. This is what this team shows, the attitude it has, and how everyone fights for their teammate. This has been worked on a lot from the beginning. It’s nothing unusual; it’s how I feel leadership from the coaching staff. We are doing well in that aspect.”
Dominance in the Air
An impressive four of Colombia’s eleven goals in the Copa América have come from headers. This aerial threat has materialized in three out of their four matches. Against Brazil, a Davinson Sánchez header from a James Rodríguez cross was narrowly disallowed by VAR due to a tight offside call, highlighting this as a significant weapon in their attacking arsenal.
Solid Defensive Foundation
Colombia’s defense has conceded only two goals in four matches. Despite an early setback with Jhon Lucumí’s injury in the opening game against Paraguay, which necessitated changes in the central defensive pairing alongside Davinson Sánchez – first with Yerry Mina, then Carlos Cuesta – the defense has solidified. While occasionally stretched on the flanks, their overall defensive structure has been robust.
Vertical and Explosive on the Right Flank
With Jhon Arias operating in a more central role, Daniel Muñoz has transformed into a lethal attacking force on the right wing. The full-back consistently pushes high to support the attack, becoming a dangerous presence in the opponent’s penalty area. Alongside forwards Luis Díaz and Jhon Córdoba, Muñoz is the team’s joint top scorer with two goals. Against Panama, he earned a penalty, which ultimately led to Richard Ríos scoring the fourth goal in their dominant 5-0 victory.
James Rodríguez in Exceptional Form
James Rodríguez is arguably the standout performer of the entire Copa América tournament. He has been named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in three of Colombia’s matches. His playmaking, leadership, and infectious energy are driving the team forward. He is already the all-time assist leader for the national team in this tournament, with eight assists to his name.
Captain James himself stated, “Did I want to be the best player of the Cup? Yes, I wanted to have a very good Cup, help my teammates to go far. Today we are going until the last day. Hopefully, we can reach that grand final that we all want. We are going through a good moment too.”
United Team Spirit
The unity within the Colombian squad is palpable, evident in their collective goal celebrations. Healthy competition within the team is valued and motivates each player.
As Córdoba noted, “It’s nice to have competition, that Borja scored, that everyone gains confidence. In the end, we are a group, and that is what matters.”
Aiming for FIFA Top 10
Colombia currently sits at 12th in the FIFA rankings as of June. Their strong Copa América performance positions them to potentially break into the top 10 in the upcoming rankings this month. Teams currently ranked above them, such as the United States (eliminated in the group stage), Morocco, and Italy (exited the Euros in the round of 16), have not fared as well in recent international competitions. This opens a real possibility for Colombia to ascend further in the global football hierarchy, potentially drawing more attention from the European football scene and further highlighting the quality of Colombian football today.
