Overview
Colombia have just had a disappointing match when they lost 0-1 to Bolivia. Of course, the harshness of having to play in El Alto was partly the reason for their defeat.
When returning home, Colombia will have the right to be confident, especially when just 1 month ago, they defeated World Cup and Copa America champions Argentina at Roberto Melendez Metropolitan.
The match against Chile will be a good opportunity for Colombia to regain the joy of victory. Chile is having a very disappointing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Currently, coach Ricardo Gareca's team is at the bottom of the table with only 5 points after 9 matches. Even though the World Cup has increased the number of places for the South American region, Chile still faces the prospect of becoming an unwilling spectator.
In all respects, Colombia are the favorites. They are firmly in second place with 16 points, just three points behind leaders Argentina. Another win would help Colombia create a gap with the chasing pack, thereby securing a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
Chile's team has declined significantly after the golden generation of 2015-2016 retired. On the contrary, Colombia has been improving with many stars in the squad. Therefore, it will not be difficult for the home team to win at this time.
In terms of head-to-head record, Colombia have won all eight of their most recent home games. Overall, they are on a 14-match unbeaten streak when hosting guests, including 13 wins.
Human resources situation
Chile will be without veteran striker Alexis Sanchez due to injury. In addition, some other notable players such as Mauricio Isla, Gabriel Arias, Ben Brereton Diaz, Matias Catalan and Vicente Pizarro have also not been called up.
On the other side of the battle line, Daniel Munoz was forced to withdraw due to muscle problems.
Expected lineup:
Colombia: Vargas, S. Arias, Mina, Lucumi, Mojica, Rios, Lerma, J. Arias, James, Duran, Diaz.
Chile: Cortes, Hormazabal, Maripan, P. Diaz, Galdames, Valdes, Osorio, Echeverria, Pulgar, Vargas, Davila.
The match between Colombia and Chile takes place at 3:30 a.m. on October 16 (Vietnam time).
