Colombia’s highly anticipated return to the World Cup after a brief absence will be marked with a thrilling matchup against Uzbekistan, a nation that has long dreamed of such an occasion since gaining independence in 1991.
Uzbekistan is set to make its World Cup debut in North America this summer, and what better place to do so than at the historic Estadio Azteca, which looked magnificent on the tournament’s opening day. Colombia, however, are strong favourites to win this match.
Nestor Lorenzo’s team boasts a potent attacking lineup, led by the experienced James Rodríguez, who is still going strong at 34. Rodríguez will be hoping to recapture the magic of 2014 as Colombia seeks redemption for their absence in Qatar.
Uzbekistan’s first opponents have relatively few familiar names, but their manager, Fabio Cannavaro, has more World Cup experience than any player on the pitch in Mexico City. Rodríguez may have won the Golden Boot, but Cannavaro took home the Ballon d’Or in 2006 after inspiring Italy to the championship.
Here’s how you can catch the action on Wednesday night.
What time does the highly anticipated matchup between Uzbekistan and Colombia kick off?
Location: Mexico City, MexicoStadium: Estadio AztecaDate: Wednesday, June 17 / Thursday, June 18 Kick-off: 22:00 ET / 19:00 PT / 3:00 BST (18 June) Referee: Anthony Taylor (ENG)
Find out how to watch Uzbekistan vs Colombia live on TV and stream online.
If you’re watching in the United States, Fox Sports and fuboTV have got you covered. A Spanish-language broadcast will also be available on Telemundo.
TSN is the primary broadcaster for this match in Canada, with RDS as another option. Unfortunately, viewers are limited to ViX in Mexico.
For those who brave the early hours of Thursday morning in the UK, BBC One or BBC iPlayer will have the action.
Country
Emitter(s)
United States
Fox Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, Fox One
Canada
TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, TSN5, RDS, RDS app
Mexico
ViX Mexico
United Kingdom
BBC One, BBC iPlayer
MORE: Complete list of worldwide broadcasters for Uzbekistan vs Colombia
What’s next for Uzbekistan, Colombia?
Uzbekistan’s manager, Fabio Cannavaro, will lead his team into their first World Cup appearance. | Scott Taetsch/FIFA/Getty Images
We’ll have to wait until Day 3 for the highly anticipated Group K clash between Colombia and Portugal. Colombia will be looking to be in top form by the time they face the European powerhouse, with Republic of Congo next up for the South Americans at Estadio Akron on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will be heading across the border for their second group game against Portugal on the same day, taking place in Houston at NRG Stadium.
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