Lorenzo and Jesurún define Colombia's path forward

Colombia's national team is starting to move pieces after being eliminated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Switzerland in the penalty shootout, in the quarterfinals. The last appearance of the 'tricolor' in the 2025 Copa América ended with a 2-2 draw against Argentina (2025-07-19). While there are still questions around coach Néstor Lorenzo, the management and coaching staff have started conversations to define the team's future with the focus on upcoming challenges.

What happened?

According to 'El Tiempo', Néstor Lorenzo and Ramón Jesurún held a meeting on July 14 in Bogotá to review the balance of the 'tricolor' in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the same information, both parties intend to continue working together, so the renewal of the coach would not be an obstacle.

Why it matters for Colombia's national team?

The continuity of the Argentine coach was under debate after the defeat against Switzerland; the team tied 0-0, but lost 4-3 in the penalty shootout in Vancouver, a result that triggered criticism and rumors. However, the statements made by Ramón Jesurún on June 23, 2026, in favor of keeping Lorenzo with the focus on the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, have not been officially denied.

What comes next?

The new project also contemplates internal adjustments. After the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Luis Amaranto Perea left the coaching staff to take over as head coach of Independiente Medellín. Additionally, according to El Tiempo, one of the physical trainers, Damián Lanata or Leandro Jorge, would leave the group, which would open a second vacancy in Lorenzo's coaching staff. The first step in the upcoming calendar will arrive in September with two friendly matches, which will serve as the start of the new sports process; we will see if with Lorenzo or without him.

Colombia's national team is in a transitional moment after being eliminated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The meeting between Lorenzo and Jesurún is an important step towards defining the 'tricolor's' sports direction. The continuity of the Argentine coach is a topic of debate, but the intention of both parties to continue working together is a positive sign. The new project also contemplates internal adjustments, which could open new opportunities for players and the coaching staff.

Colombia's national team has a packed schedule of challenges in the future. The 2028 Copa América and the 2030 FIFA World Cup are two of the most important objectives for the 'tricolor'. The elimination in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a hard blow, but Colombia's national team has the opportunity to learn from its mistakes and grow as a team. The meeting between Lorenzo and Jesurún is an important step towards defining the 'tricolor's' sports direction.