It’s been a storybook last two years for the Colombia national team. After years of mediocrity that saw them miss several World Cups and fail to produce many notable professionals, Colombia have re-emerged as one of the world’s top nations. Following a ‘golden generation’ of talent, they took the 2014 World Cup by storm with their exciting attacking play and youthful exuberance. With talent all over the world and playing in some of the best leagues in the world, Colombia are a force to be reckoned with in this summer’s Copa America.

By the Numbers

World Ranking: 4
Copa America Record: 37W-16D-22L
Best Copa America Finish: 1st in 2001
Top Goal Scorer: James Rodriguez (14)

Recent Form:
3-1 W vs. Haiti – Friendly
3-1 W vs. Ecuador – WCQ
3-2 W at Bolivia – WCQ
1-0 L vs. Argentina – WCQ
1-1 D at Chile – WCQ

2016 Colombia Home & Away Jerseys

Key Player

The undisputed face of Colombian soccer right now is James Rodriguez. The creative midfielder used the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as his chance to announce himself to the soccer world. He took advantage of it with jaw-dropping performances on route to the quarterfinals. His individual brilliance led to Real Madrid snatching him up after the tournament. After a phenomenal debut season in La Liga, Rodriguez has had his struggles this past season. Unable to find a consistent starting spot under new management, the playmaker has been reserved to the bench for the majority of the second half of the season. Colombia will need their No. 10 to shake off his rust in a hurry and regain his top form if they are to live up to expectations in the Copa America.

Group Stage Schedule

Colombia are the headlining name of a very tough Group A that features the host country USA, the toughest non-seeded CONCACAF team in Costa Rica, and perennial South American nuisance Paraguay.
Friday, June 3 — United States vs. Colombia, 9:30 p.m. ET — Fox Sports 1
Tuesday, June 7 — Colombia vs. Paraguary, 10:00 p.m. ET — Fox Sports 1
Saturday, June 11 — Costa Rica vs. Colombia, 9:00 p.m. ET – Fox Sports 2

New York City Spot

In addition to hosting several other ethnic enclaves, Jackson Heights will be the city’s center of Colombian support. Head to Northern Boulevard, take your pick of restaurants and bars, and settle in for some cholados as well as an exciting viewing experience.

Closing Thoughts

According to FIFA, Colombia at the third best team in the Copa America Centenario. By that stat, it’s logical to conclude that they are one of the favorites to win it all. Their prospects seem high to get out of a difficult group, but that shouldn’t be taken for granted. If they can manuever out of the group then the sky is the limit. The overall talent is there for Colombia to lift the cup. If form and luck show up along with that talent, it could be a dream summer for their country’s soccer team.