Colombia salvages a point in Lima and remains unbeaten in the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.

The Colombian national team did not shine during their visit to Peru, but managed a valuable 1-1 draw in Lima, keeping their unbeaten run in the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Despite not showing their best form, a saving goal from Luis Díaz secured a crucial point for Néstor Lorenzo’s team.

A tough and lackluster match

Colombia lacked the freshness they showed in the Copa América, with several players feeling the effects of preseason. In the first half, coach Néstor Lorenzo tried a different lineup with Luis Sinisterra and Jhon Arias, but the team couldn’t find the right rhythm. Peru exploited spaces on the left flank, where Johan Mojica struggled, creating several dangerous chances, including an offside goal by Gianluca Lapadula.

The introduction of veteran players like James Rodríguez and Yerry Mina in the second half slightly improved Colombia’s play, but the team still struggled to create clear scoring opportunities.

Peru’s goal and Colombia’s reaction

As Colombia seemed to be improving, Peru capitalized on a defensive lapse during a corner. Alexander Callens received the ball in the small box and scored the 1-0 after a cross from Álex Valera, exposing Colombia’s weak marking, with Yerry Mina unable to react.

The goal pushed Colombia to seek the equalizer more aggressively. Youngsters Jhon Durán and Yaser Asprilla were brought on to add freshness to the attack, alongside James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz, who led the attempts to turn the game around.

Luis Díaz’s saving goal

Colombia’s efforts paid off in the 83rd minute when a corner kick taken by James Rodríguez found Jhon Durán at the near post. Durán headed the ball, and at the far post, Luis Díaz finished it off to score the equalizer. This was Díaz’s third goal in the qualifiers, cementing his position as Colombia’s top scorer in this World Cup campaign.

Next challenge: Argentina in Barranquilla

Colombia now prepares for a tough challenge against Argentina, a team that has been solidly defeating their rivals. The match in Barranquilla will be an opportunity for Néstor Lorenzo’s side to seek a victory and continue their fight for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The coming days will be crucial for refreshing tactics and preparing for the encounter with the current continental champions.