Soccer-Rodriguez starts as Colombia return to World Cup against debutants Uzbekistan


FILE PHOTO: Jul 6, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Colombia midfielder James Rodriguez (10) celebrates after a goal during the first half against the Panama in the Copa America Quarterfinal at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo

MEXICO ⁠CITY, June 17 (Reuters) - Colombia talisman ⁠James Rodriguez was picked to start ‌his side's World Cup Group K opener while Uzbekistan's all-time leading goalscorer Eldor Shomurodov has ​the honour of leading out ⁠his team for ⁠their tournament debut.

• Colombia captain Rodriguez, 34, ⁠deemed ‌fit to start in his third World Cup after recent ⁠fitness issues.

• Coach Nestor Lorenzo picks ​Luis Suarez ‌and Luis Diaz to lead the ⁠line ​in Colombia's first World Cup since 2018.

• Striker Shomurodov captains Uzbekistan having scored ⁠a record 44 goals for ​his country.

• Abdukodir Khusanov anchors a five-man backline for Fabio Cannavaro's side.

Uzbekistan: Utkir Yusupov, ⁠Abdukodir Khusanov, Rustam Ashurmatov, Sherzod Nasrullaev, Abdulla Abdullaev, Behruzjon Karimov, Akmal Mozgovoy, Otabek Shukurov, Oston Urunov, Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Eldor ​Shomurodov.

Colombia: Camilo Vargas, ⁠Daniel Munoz, Jhon Lucumi, Gustavo Puerta, Johan ​Mojica, Davinson Sanchez, James ‌Rodriguez, Jhon Arias, Jefferson ​Lerma, Luis Diaz, Luis Suarez.

(Reporting by Christian Radnedge,Editing by Ed Osmond)

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