Colombia’s Pékerman praises team’s evolution, questions England’s readiness
Former Colombia coach backs Néstor Lorenzo's rebuilding project while casting doubt on England ahead of competitive debut
José Pékerman, the man who guided Colombia to its best World Cup finish in decades, has weighed in on the current state of the national team. His verdict: the squad has come a long way since the painful absence from Qatar 2022.
From rock bottom to Copa América final
Under Lorenzo’s watch, Colombia strung together a 28-match unbeaten streak, a run that included victories over Germany, Brazil, Uruguay, and Spain.
The crowning achievement of that streak was reaching the 2024 Copa América final.
Colombia secured their spot at the 2026 tournament, marking the nation’s seventh appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Pékerman’s 2014 squad reached the World Cup quarterfinals, a feat that remains the country’s best-ever result at the tournament. He followed that up with a strong 2018 campaign before departing.
Doubts around England
Pékerman didn’t limit his analysis to Colombia. He also turned his attention to England, raising questions about England’s readiness ahead of their competitive debut.
What Pékerman’s endorsement means for Colombia’s trajectory
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, presents Colombia with a genuine opportunity. The expanded 48-team format changes the dynamics of the group stage.
Pékerman’s quarterfinal achievement in 2014 remains the benchmark. Lorenzo will be judged against it.