The bronze medal in Santiago confirms the maturity of a generation that combines discipline, talent, and character. With memorable performances and a well-organized defence that left its mark in every match, Colombia revived the feat of 2003 in the United Arab Emirates.
The national team concluded its participation in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 with a historic 1–0 victory over France, matching its best-ever performance in the category and securing third place.
Just two minutes into the game, Óscar Perea capitalized on a recovery in the opponent’s half and a precise assist from Royner Benítez to score the only goal of the match.
From that moment, Torres’ side defended with composure against France’s relentless pressure, which repeatedly crashed against the solidity of the Colombian backline.
The tension peaked in the 84th minute, when a penalty initially awarded to France was overturned by VAR — keeping the Cafeteros’ hopes alive until the final whistle.
Beyond the podium, this team leaves the impression that the future has already begun: a group capable of competing with the best, thrilling with its football, and once again projecting the country among the youth powerhouses of the world.
DEFENDING FIRST “The glory is for God. They played with character and focus. Among more than 200 national teams and 24 present in Chile, we made history.
This is a team that has set an example both on and off the field,” said Torres. Colombia’s campaign was built on a solid tactical structure and the efficiency of its playing model.
From the debut in Talca to the closing in Santiago, the team displayed a clear identity — strong defence, quick transitions, and an unbreakable collective spirit — that allowed it to relive the success of 2003.
“Reaching third place in the world is not easy. We set the bar high and always went out to compete and give our best,” Elkin Rivero told AIPS, capturing La Tricolor’s effort and conviction.
On the football side, the national team showed remarkable growth at every stage of the tournament. Defensive solidity was one of its main strengths, conceding only six goals in seven matches.
Moreover, the connection between lines allowed the team to exploit the speed of its wingers and the creativity of its midfield. The Rivero–Jhojan Torres partnership brought balance, while players such as Arizala, Perea, and Benítez made the difference in attack.
César Torres’ tactical awareness — his emphasis on high pressing and rapid transitions — consolidated a modern, effective, and competitive style. The team not only adapted to its rivals but also imposed its own rhythm, displaying a level of maturity rarely seen in youth national squads.
A NEW DAWN Match after match, the Fiscal and National stadiums were flooded with yellow shirts and Colombian families cheering tirelessly.
“Having the Colombian people always behind us encourages us, makes us feel at home, and motivates us to give our best,” said Juan David Arizala, the winger who stood out for his speed and flair. In every recovered ball, every celebration, and every defeat faced with dignity, a generation was forged that truly understood what it means to represent a nation.
This unconditional support — both in the stands and from afar — became the emotional engine of a group that played every match as if it were a final. “As I’ve always said, this team moves forward. Colombia plays well, and we managed to hold the result until the end to take the bronze home,” declared José Cavadía.
In terms of collective performance, Colombia showed steady growth, tactical maturity, and a competitive spirit that placed it among the most consistent teams of the tournament. The Cafetero side played with soul, with faith, and with a style that made Chile vibrate. And when the final whistle blew in Santiago, one certainty remained: this generation is not a promise — it is a reality.
