Colombia's Predicted Lineup to Face Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Colombia has already secured its place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it still has one major objective left: finishing at the top of Group K. To do so, it must defeat Portugal, one of the favorites to win the tournament and a team equally determined to close out the group stage with a victory.

The match carries enormous strategic value. Finishing first in the group could provide a more favorable path through the knockout rounds, which is why head coach Néstor Lorenzo is expected to field a lineup very close to his strongest XI and avoid making too many rotations in the toughest match of the group stage.

This will also be a historic encounter. Colombia and Portugal have never faced each other in a FIFA World Cup or in an official senior international match, making this the first-ever meeting between the two nations.

Colombia's Predicted Lineup

Formation: 4-3-3

12 Camilo Vargas
2 Daniel Muñoz
23 Davinson Sánchez
3 Jhon Lucumí
17 Johan Mojica
16 Jefferson Lerma
14 Gustavo Puerta
11 Jhon Arias
10 James Rodríguez (c)
25 Luis Suárez
7 Luis Díaz

Colombia Tactical Analysis

Colombia is expected to stick with the 4-3-3 formation that has brought the team so much success throughout the tournament. Néstor Lorenzo's side has stood out for its balance between defense and attack, applying intense pressure immediately after losing possession and launching quick transitions that take advantage of the pace of its wingers.

In midfield, Jefferson Lerma will be responsible for winning back possession and providing defensive stability, while Gustavo Puerta will add energy and box-to-box movement. The team's attacking creativity will revolve around James Rodríguez, who remains the player capable of changing the rhythm of a match with his vision, passing accuracy, and set-piece quality.

Out wide, Luis Díaz and Jhon Arias will look to create one-on-one situations and open space for overlapping fullbacks. Up front, Luis Suárez will serve as the attacking reference point, using his movement and ability to occupy the Portuguese center backs.

One issue Colombia must manage carefully is discipline. Although yellow cards are wiped after the group stage, Johan Mojica, Jhon Lucumí, and Jefferson Lerma enter this match carrying yellow cards. If any of them are booked again, they will miss the Round of 32. That situation could force all three players to be more measured in certain challenges without sacrificing defensive intensity.

Facing a team like Portugal, which boasts outstanding technical quality and usually dominates possession, the key for the Cafeteros will be maintaining defensive organization, pressing at the right moments, and making the most of every transition opportunity. A victory would not only confirm the team's excellent form but also send Colombia into the knockout stage full of confidence after defeating one of the tournament favorites.