Bogota, Nov 11: Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has been included in Colombia’s 26-player squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and Paraguay, as announced by manager Nestor Lorenzo. The decision comes just hours after Diaz’s father, Luis Manuel Diaz, was released following a 13-day captivity by a guerrilla group.
The Colombian Football Federation officially unveiled the squad on its website, highlighting the resilience and determination of both the player and the national team amid a challenging personal situation for Diaz.
In addition to Diaz, the squad features key players, including Sao Paulo playmaker James Rodriguez and midfielder Jhon Arias, a notable figure in Fluminense’s recent victory over Boca Juniors in the Copa Libertadores final. However, some experienced players, namely Yerry Mina, Juan Guillermo Cuadrado, and Radamel Falcao, were not included due to their limited playing time resulting from recent injuries.
Colombia is currently positioned fifth in the fiercely competitive 10-team South American group, with six points from their initial four qualifiers. The upcoming matches against Brazil and Paraguay present an opportunity for the Cafeteros to secure vital points and advance in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
The selected squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Camilo Vargas, Alvaro Montero, and Kevin Mier.
Defenders: Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, Jhon Lucumi, Willer Ditta, Yerson Mosquera, Santiago Arias, Daniel Munoz, Deiver Machado, and Cristian Borja.
Midfielders: James Rodriguez, Matheus Uribe, Jefferson Lerma, Kevin Castano, Richard Rios, Jaminton Campaz, Jhon Arias, Jorge Carrascal, and Yaser Asprilla.
Forwards: Luis Diaz, Rafael Santos Borre, Luis Sinisterra, Jhon Cordoba, and Mateo Cassierra.
With preparations well underway, the organizing committee, led by Joint Secretary of the BFI Larry Kharpran, emphasized the significance of government support in hosting amateur boxing events where private sponsorships are limited. Selections for Meghalaya boxers are expected to commence soon, with approximately 10 local talents aiming to participate in the championship.
The 7th Elite Men’s National Boxing Championship, scheduled from November 25 to December 1, promises not only a showcase of boxing excellence but also an affirmation of Shillong’s status as a thriving hub for prestigious sporting events.
