Colombia’s forward #18 Linda Caicedo (C) celebrates scoring her team’s first goal during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group H football match between Germany and Colombia at Sydney Football Stadium in Sydney on July 30, 2023. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
Colombia is relying on the talents of two teenage stars to shine in their Women’s World Cup knockout clash against Jamaica on Tuesday and lead them to their first-ever quarterfinals.
Linda Caicedo, the Real Madrid striker, has already made a name for herself with goals in victories against South Korea and Germany in the group stage.
Joining her in Melbourne will be Ana Maria Guzman, also 18 years old, making her tournament debut as an attacking defender. Manuela Vanegas, the regular starter, is suspended due to accumulating two yellow cards.
Coach Nelson Abadia has been mentoring both Caicedo and Guzman since they were 12 years old and has complete confidence in their abilities.
“I have 23 players and they are all very talented,” said Abadia, known for sticking with the same starting team whenever possible. “I’m entirely confident in Ana, she is very capable.”
Guzman played in last year’s under-17 World Cup in India, where they lost 1-0 to Spain in the final. Sitting next to her coach, she expressed her readiness to step up in this crucial match.
“I will play any position, left or right, and enjoy every second,” said Guzman, who plays for Deportivo Pereira. “It’s a great opportunity. The coach has been a key person in my life, he has always supported me, and I want to give my best.
“Regarding Linda, she is a player that proves dreams can be achieved, but you have to work for it.
“Playing with Linda is extra special. Yes, we are the youngest, but we will do whatever it takes for this team.”
Guzman is expected to be the only change to the lineup that suffered a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in their last group match.
Abadia expressed caution about the Jamaican team, who are also playing for their first World Cup quarterfinal spot.
“We are aware of what Jamaica brings to the table. They are a very solid team defensively,” he said. “We must also be cautious of their counter-attack, as they are very strong in that area.
“There are high expectations, but we have thoroughly analyzed their game and will approach it with a strategic and intelligent approach.”
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