Colombia is back in the World Cup after eight years, and all eyes are on Luis Diaz. The Bayern Munich star was directly involved in over 40 goals last season and is the centerpiece of Nestor Lorenzo's attack-minded squad.
The team finished third in South American qualifiers, beating both Brazil and Argentina. They were runners-up at the 2024 Copa America-their best showing since winning it in 2001.
Diaz overcame personal tragedy during qualifying. His parents were kidnapped by the ELN guerrillas; his father was held for 12 days. Diaz called it "the most difficult moment of my life."
After a $87 million move to Bayern in 2025, he won the Bundesliga and reached the Champions League semifinals. Manager Vincent Kompany called him a "machine" with "chaotic creativity."
Colombia opens Group K on June 17 against Uzbekistan in Mexico City, then faces Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Veteran James Rodriguez and Sporting's Luis Suarez will support Diaz.
"We have a great team. I'm really excited for my first World Cup," Diaz said.