Following their unexpected absence from the 2022 World Cup, Colombia has bounced back impressively with a 20-match unbeaten streak, defeating top teams such as Brazil, Spain, and Germany.
Los Cafeteros will be brimming with confidence as they head to The United States and they will fancy their chances against the traditionally dominant nations of the Copa America such as Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay.
Soccernet.football takes a look at some of the players who could play a major role for this year’s dark horses when the tournament kicks off later this month.
7. Davinson Sanchez
The former Tottenham Hotspur defender was a stalwart in defense for Galatasaray this season as they played their way to the Turkish Super Lig title.
Having established himself as a crucial player for his nation, Los Cafeteros will be hoping the 27-year-old defender can continue to provide defensive solidity for them in the United States.
6. Juan Fernando Quintero
The 31-year-old is one of the experienced players in this Colombian side and his experience could prove instrumental for Los Cafeteros in the United States.
Quintero plies his trade in Argentina with Racing Club where he has notched seven goal contributions across nineteen appearances.
5. Jorge Carrascal
Carrascal, who plays for Dynamo Moscow in the Russia Premier League is set to rival Quintero for game time at the Copa America.
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder could offer a creative spark for Los Cafeteros in the United States as he boasts a tally of 7 assists in 29 games for Dynamo Moscow.
4. Daniel Munoz
The 28-year-old full-back was instrumental for Crystal Palace this past season as they pulled off a late resurgence to finish in the top half of the Premier League table.
Munoz, who made 13 goal contributions across 45 games for both Genk and Crystal Palace this past season, will certainly provide extra attacking threat from the right flank for Los Cafeteros in the Copa America.
3. James Rodriguez
The 2014 World Cup golden boot winner’s career may not have gone the way many envisaged after his stellar display in Brazil, however, his talent on the pitch remains undeniable.
James will provide leadership, experience and creativity for Los Cafeteros at the Copa America as they look to win the tournament for only the second time in their history.
2. Miguel Borja
The 31-year-old striker is enjoying fine form going into the Copa America, having notched 24 goal contributions in 24 matches for River Plate in the Copa de La Liga.
Borja’s impressive form should see him lead Los Cafeteros’ attack in the United States, although he will have to beat competition from his compatriot Jhon Cordoba.
1. Luis Diaz
Diaz had a decent outing for Liverpool this past season, tallying 13 goals and 5 assists and helping the Reds to a League Cup triumph as they prevailed over Chelsea in the final.
The 27-year-old attacker is set to be Colombia’s main man at the Copa America and he will have to step up massively for his nation if they are to navigate their way deep into the latter stages of the tournament.