started · updated
Colombia football team amid player criticism and praise
Former national coach José Néstor Pekerman praised midfielder Juan Fernando Quintero, calling his talent rare and noting his recent improvement at River Plate. Pekerman explained he had not called Quintero for roughly three years after the 2014 World Cup because Edwin Cardona was in better form, not due to a lack of confidence in Quintero.
Coach Jorge Luis Pinto publicly questioned James Rodríguez’s suitability as captain of the Colombian side, citing the striker’s irregular club minutes and lack of continuity as reasons he does not merit the leadership role.
Defender Johan Mojica responded to a fan’s sarcastic comment about his crossing ability with a tongue‑in‑cheek reply on social media, saying he continues to “facturar” (earn money). The exchange revived discussion of Mojica’s performances after Colombia’s exit from the 2026 World Cup, where the team conceded only one goal in regular time.
Entities
James Rodríguez · Johan Mojica · Jorge Luis Pinto · José Néstor Pekerman · Juan Fernando Quintero
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pinto argued that James Rodríguez’s lack of continuity at club level undermines his captaincy suitability. www.marca.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] José Néstor Pekerman praised Juan Fernando Quintero as a player with rare qualities. www.diariodelsur.com.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pekerman did not call Quintero to the Colombian national team for about three years after the 2014 World Cup. www.diariodelsur.com.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mojica noted that Colombia conceded only one goal in regular time during the 2026 World Cup. www.eldiario.com.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Jorge Luis Pinto questioned James Rodríguez’s suitability as captain of the Colombian national team. www.marca.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Pekerman said Edwin Cardona was in good form during the period Quintero was not selected. www.diariodelsur.com.co
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Johan Mojica responded to a fan’s sarcastic comment about his crossing by saying he continues to “facturar”. www.eldiario.com.co