James Rodríguez will play his fourth consecutive match with Colombia against Chile in Santiago for the Eliminatoria. He would be an alternative considering Jorge Carrascal's performance in Barranquilla.
Two goals and unbeaten in three matches. Always decisive. The number 10's away record against La Roja is impeccable. He performed and brought points in 2012, 2015, and 2020. For the fourth time, he comes with less playing time, although his experience will influence to maintain that condition.
The second half of the debut against Venezuela at the Metropolitano suggests that the national team will play with a 4-5-1 formation with Jorge Carrascal starting. The attacking midfielder assumed control of the attack with criteria. He has more continuity and Néstor Lorenzo's absolute confidence. Without complete training the previous week, he entered for the second half. That determines a more secondary role for James.
He understands it that way. For now, his influence is more noticeable in the dressing room. He knows those instances and how to perform against the Chileans.
His first hit in Santiago was 11 years ago with a fantastic free-kick goal for a 1-3 victory. He beat Claudio Bravo with his left foot. Later, Falcao and Teo Gutierrez increased the score.
In 2015, he saved a draw against the reigning Copa America champion. He changed feet to define in the area following Luis Muriel's pass. With his right foot, he scored the 1-1.
The last time he was captain under Carlos Queiroz's management. He played on the right flank, with Muriel and Duván Zapata in the front three, supported by Juan Guillermo Cuadrado and Stefan Medina on the sides. It was an acceptable performance in the agonizing 2-2 draw due to Falcao's goal.
Last Thursday, he finished with the armband in the 1-0 victory against Venezuela. He played 18 minutes, and Lorenzo knows the importance of having him available.
"It's a luxury to have players like Juanfer, James, Carrascal, and Sinisterra at our disposal. Decisions are evaluated during the course of the match. This is football, and it doesn't always go as planned," explained the coach.
In his fourth consecutive World Cup qualifying campaign, James is ready to contribute. He feels at home.