James Rodriguez headlines Colombia World Cup squad announcement

2014 World Cup top goalscorer James Rodriguez will captain Colombia at this summer's tournament.

The now 34-year-old burst onto the scene more than a decade ago when Brazil hosted the World Cup, scoring six goals, including one of the most memorable strikes in history when his left-footed volley against Uruguay catapulted in off the bar, beyond the reach of Fernando Muslera.

Colombia were eventually knocked out by hosts Brazil in the quarter-final; their best result at the World Cup.

Los Cafeteros failed to qualify for the last edition of the tournament in 2022 and were defeated on penalties by England in the round of 16, four years prior.

Despite their poor World Cup record, Nestor Lorenzo's men are to to be underestimated heading into the summer given the talent listed within their 26-strong squad list.

Bayern Munich winger Luis Diaz is arguably the most talented of the bunch and arrives off the back of a superb debut campaign with the German giants where registered 29 goal contributions in just 32 league matches as Bayern rampaged their way to yet another Bundesliga title.

Luis Javier Suarez, formerly of Watford, has hit the big time while playing for Sporting CP. The 28-year-old has netted an incredible 28 goals, earning himself links with a move to Liverpool this summer.

Pitted against Portugal, DR Congo and Uzbekistan in Group K, the route to knockout qualification is not straightforward for Colombia, however, at 1/9, they are expected to get the job done.

Colombia's World Cup squad

Goalkeepers

Camilo Vargas, David Ospina, Alvaro Montero

Defenders

Daniel Munoz, Santiago Arias, Yerry Mina, Davinson Sanchez, John Lucumi, Willer Ditta, Yohan Mojica, Deiver Machado

Midfielders

Richard Rios, Jefferson Lerma, Gustavo Puerta, Kevin Castano, John Arias, James Rodriguez, Juan Fernando Quintero, Jorge Carrascal, Juan Camilo Hernandez

Forwards

Luis Diaz, Luis Suarez, Carlos Gomez, Jaminton Campaz, John Cordoba, Juan Camilo Hernandez