Colombia news

GOAL writers predict the World Cup dark horses

It's so close we can almost taste it. The 2026 World Cup is now just days away, with the best players from around the globe descending on the United States, Mexico and Canada for what promises to be a superb summer of football. While some teams will solely harbour dreams of getting out of the groups, others know that anything other than a trophy parade in late-July will go down as failure. We're set, then, for five-and-a-half weeks of drama, filled with joy and heartbreak in equal measure.

Explained: Why ALL squad players must join World Cup pre-match anthems

FIFA has announced a significant protocol modification that will see every squad member take part in the pre-match national anthems at the upcoming World Cup. Moving away from traditional sporting custom, football's global governing body has mandated that both starting line-ups and substitutes congregate together on the pitch ahead of kick-off.

From Gyan to Rodriguez - Remembering World Cup one-hit wonders

The World Cup has given many players the platform to shine brightly - and then fizzle out. GOAL looks at some of the best.

RANKED: 100 most iconic moments in World Cup history

The World Cup has had no shortage of iconic moments across nearly 100 years of history. Every four years, billions of fans congregate to watch a tournament that has provided more drama, heartbreak and joy than any other event in sporting history. Football's grandest stage, the World Cup has always offered a platform for legends to be born, but it has also seen reputations destroyed and the downfall of so many famous faces.

When are the final World Cup 2026 squads announced?

FIFA has confirmed the key dates and squad regulations for the 2026 World Cup. Nations must submit their final player lists by June 1, with strict rules in place regarding injuries, replacements and goalkeeper selections.

Bolivia v Colombia - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Who has made Colombia's squad for the 2026 World Cup?

All you need to know about Colombia's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Colombia FIFA World Cup 2026 TV Schedule

Everything you need to know about how to watch Colombia in the World Cup.

Argentine soccer star Diego Maradona, we

Top 15 best goals in FIFA World Cup finals history

The World Cup has been the home of some of the very best players in football's history so it is little surprise that the subject of the best goal at the tournament is so hotly debated. Diego Maradona, Pele, and even Benjamin Pavard would put forward their own arguments for the prize, but which of them come out on top, if any?! GOAL guides you through the 15 best goals in the World Cup finals.

The Rondo: Did Minnesota make a mistake in signing James?

James Rodriguez was always likely to be at Minnesota United for just a few months, but his lack of impact for the Loons makes him a curious signing

Vancouver Whitecaps FC v Minnesota United FC

'Few more years' - Colombia's Rodriguez shuts down retirement rumors

James Rodriguez says he has no intention of retiring after representing Colombia at this summer's World Cup. Reports had said that the veteran midfielder would call it quits after the upcoming tournament, but Rodriguez, who started the MLS season with Minnesota United on a short-term deal, says he expects to play on.

Rodriguez reportedly set to leave Minnesota, could retire after WC

James Rodriguez's brief, underwhelming spell with Minnesota United appears to be nearing an abrupt end. Apple TV's Michele Giannone and The Athletic reported that the Colombian star will leave next week to join his national team for the World Cup and is not expected to return after the tournament. The midfielder has made just four league appearances for the club.

VIDEO: Shakira shares 2026 World Cup song snippet

Sixteen years after the global phenomenon of 'Waka Waka', Shakira is set to take centre stage again for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The Colombian singer has released a snippet of the official song for the tournament titled 'Dai Dai', a collaborative project with Nigerian artist Burna Boy.

Betting spotlight

Mexico vs Ecuador predictions: Impressive El Tri to march on

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Can signing of the season Diaz win the Ballon d'Or?

In the 44th minute of Bayern Munich's Bundesliga clash with St. Pauli on November 29, Luis Diaz ended up prone in the penalty area. However, while the winger had lost his balance, he'd not lost control of the ball - and somehow managed to flick it up off the floor and into the path of Joshua Kimmich to score. It was an extraordinary piece of skill - but Bayern boss Vincent Kompany wasn't in the least bit surprised by it.

Ospina's Colombia swansong is his best chance at World Cup glory

GOAL sits down with former Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina to discuss Colombia’s new generation, his place within it, and the weight of expectation ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Rodriguez makes World Cup vow after making first MLS start for Minnesota

James Rodriguez is determined to reach the 2026 World Cup in peak condition. The Colombian playmaker made his first Major League Soccer start for Minnesota United on Saturday, silencing any doubts about his fitness. Despite a narrow loss to LAFC, he showcased glimpses of his former glory before making a vow to Colombia fans ahead of their World Cup campaign this summer.

Minnesota issue Rodriguez health update

Minnesota United have provided a positive update on James Rodriguez following his recent emergency hospitalization. The Colombian superstar has returned to the club’s training facility after a health scare while on international duty.

On the brink... Medical report raises concerns about former Real Madrid star

His condition has been described as "serious"

Colombia v Croatia - International Friendly

Rodriguez hospitalised with 'severe dehydration'

Colombia captain James Rodriguez has been admitted to a Minnesota hospital following a health scare during the international break. The veteran playmaker is undergoing medical monitoring for severe dehydration just months before the 2026 World Cup kicks off.

Former Real Madrid star taken to hospital

World Cup trophy Christian Pulisic Edson Alvarez

World Cup 2026: Full list of qualified teams

GOAL breaks down all the confirmed qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, plus the teams who could soon be on their way.

Mexico v Colombia - International Friendly

Liverpool & Newcastle ready to do battle for €80m Colombia striker

Liverpool and Newcastle United have reportedly entered a fierce battle to secure the signature of Sporting CP forward Luis Suarez ahead of the summer transfer window. The Colombian international has enjoyed a prolific campaign in Portugal, attracting elite Premier League interest following a string of dominant displays. With a significant release clause in place, any potential suitor will need to break the bank for the 28-year-old.

Colombia v France - International Friendly

Doué scores his first goals for France: 3-1 in a friendly against Colombia

A crucial test for both teams: the French come out on top

Thuram breaks his goal drought for France almost three years on: a goal against Colombia

Tikus, as he’s known in the dressing room, is making the most of the opportunity Deschamps has given him

Milan: Rabiot did not train with France. Deschamps: "Knee injury"

The Rossoneri midfielder has picked up an injury during training with the national team

Fenerbahce SK v Gaziantep FK - Trendyol Süper Lig

Kante reveals Ligue 1 transfer talks

N'Golo Kante has revealed that a move to Ligue 1 side Paris FC was a genuine possibility during the previous summer transfer window. Despite being 34 years old, the tireless midfielder remains a high-value target for clubs across Europe and beyond. While he ultimately stayed in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad for the first half of the season before joining Fenerbahce in February, he has suggested he could still return to his homeland.

"Not normal": Vuskovic shocks Diaz's Colombians too

Luka Vuskovic has now captivated his home country of Croatia too. The local press is full of praise for the Bundesliga rising star.

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