Lorenzo praises Mexico City's 'beautiful energy' after Colombia's World Cup qualifying win

Colombia began their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Mexico City. Coach Néstor Lorenzo expressed satisfaction with the result, though he acknowledged the team faced challenges during the match.

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We knew it would be a difficult match. We sank a little in the second half. They have a direct game that forces you to retreat. The ball went wide, the crosses came in and that puts you in trouble. Physically, it was necessary to refresh the team. We could have achieved a greater difference.

Lorenzo described the game as difficult, noting that his players felt the pressure of being favorites. He explained that Uzbekistan's direct play forced Colombia to defend at times, and that physical refreshment was needed in the second half to maintain control. "We knew it would be a difficult match. We sank a little in the second half. They have a direct game that forces you to retreat," Lorenzo stated. He also commented on the vibrant atmosphere in the stadium, calling it "a beautiful energy," but admitted it weighed on his players.

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It's a beautiful energy, although it also weighed a bit on my boys. When you have the obligation to win, it's not easy for anyone. Being the favorite always implies an extra responsibility.

The Colombian coach highlighted the need for his team to improve their efficiency in the final third, converting their dominance into more goals. "We are working on the finishing," he mentioned, indicating that while the team controlled possession and played in the opponent's half, finding clear scoring opportunities was a struggle against Uzbekistan's organized defense.

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The characteristic of this team is to be protagonists and to have the ball. Their defensive block worked well and we struggled to find spaces. I am left with the image of a protagonist Colombia, playing in the opponent's half.

Looking ahead, Lorenzo anticipates tougher challenges in Group K. Colombia will face Congo and Portugal next, matches he expects to require different strategies. "Now we will face a strong team like Congo. We have two very demanding matches ahead of us and the strategy will be different," he said, emphasizing the need for his team to perform at their best.

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Now we will face a strong team like Congo. We have two very demanding matches ahead of us and the strategy will be different.