Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualification match.
Paraguay leapfrogged Colombia in the standings after the last round, edging ahead by a single point into fifth place. But with this clash taking place in Barranquilla, the hosts have a perfect opportunity to reclaim their position – and they'll be fully aware of how vital three points are at this stage of qualifying.
Colombia
Colombia were seconds away from a precious point in Brazil before a late Vinícius Júnior thunderbolt and deflection condemned them to a 1:2 defeat. That loss saw them slide behind both Brazil and Paraguay. Colombia remain a formidable side on home soil, having picked up 13 of a possible 18 points in this campaign at home. Their only slip-up came against high-flying Ecuador (0:1), who currently sit second in the table.
Paraguay
Paraguay continue to be the embodiment of pragmatism – tight at the back, conservative in attack, and remarkably difficult to break down. Their seven goals conceded are bettered only by Ecuador’s five. The team edged past Chile (1:0) last time out, in a match that perfectly reflected their gritty style. But away from home, Paraguay have scored just two goals in six matches – five of those featured under 2.5 goals, and three finished goalless.
Colombia vs Paraguay Prediction
Even with Colombia’s relatively productive attack (16 goals so far), breaking through Paraguay’s deep block will be a serious challenge. These sides played out a 0:0 draw in the previous cycle, and another low-scoring contest seems likely here.
