Cartagena Mayor Declares Civic Afternoon for Colombia's World Cup Match

The mayor of Cartagena, Colombia, Dumek Turbay, has declared Tuesday afternoon a civic holiday. This decision allows public and private sector employees to watch Colombia's Round of 16 match against Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup.

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We have made the decision so that all public services and private companies can join the civic afternoon tomorrow, Tuesday, from 1:00 p.m.

"We have made the decision so that all public services and private companies can join the civic afternoon tomorrow, Tuesday, from 1:00 p.m.," Turbay announced in a video shared on his X account. The match is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. local time in Vancouver, which corresponds to 8:00 p.m. GMT.

Colombia advanced to this stage after a 1-0 victory over Ghana in the Round of 32. The mayor urged citizens to bring "the best energy" and enjoy the game, expressing his hope that the team "can move forward." The national team's progress in the tournament has generated significant excitement across Colombia, marking their first appearance in this stage since the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

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The best energy, that is the only obligation you have.

Colombian media and international coaches have taken notice of the team's performance. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente praised Colombia's "very high level," including them among his tournament favorites. "If I hadn't included them among the candidates until now, I do it now. They have a very high level, fantastic footballers, with a very high physical and technical level. You only have to look at the forward line they have. It's a great team," he stated in a press conference.

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They have a very high level, fantastic footballers, with a very high physical and technical level. You only have to look at the forward line they have. It's a great team.