Colombia’s Bronze Shines Like Gold

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Colombia’s Bronze Shines Like Gold

Oct 19, 2025

Colombia Takes Third Place at the U-20 World Cup Chile 2025

SANTIAGO, October 19, 2025 — “I look back and feel proud of them, of us, of our great work. Now it’s time to enjoy,” said coach César Torres, holding a large Colombian flag in both hands. The bronze medal in Santiago confirms the maturity of a generation that blends discipline, talent, and character. With memorable performances and a well-organized defense that left its mark in every match, Colombia relived 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 performance in the category and securing third place.

Just two minutes after kickoff, Óscar Perea capitalized on a turnover in the opposing half and a precise assist from Royner Benítez to score the only goal of the match. From that moment on, Torres’s team calmly withstood relentless French pressure, which repeatedly crashed against the solid Colombian defense. Tension peaked in the 84th minute when VAR overturned a penalty initially awarded to France, 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 their football, and once again projecting the country among the world’s youth powers.

DEFENDING FIRST. “The glory is God’s. 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 pitch,” 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 match in Santiago, the team displayed a clear identity — strong defense, 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 very high and always went out to compete and give our best,” declared Elkin Rivero to AIPS, capturing the effort and conviction of La Tricolor.

On the footballing 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 duo brought balance, while players like Arizala, Perea, and Benítez made the difference in attack.

César Torres’s tactical awareness — his emphasis on high pressing and quick transitions — consolidated a modern, effective, and competitive style. The team not only adapted to its rivals but also imposed its own rhythm, showing a level of maturity rarely seen in youth teams.

A NEW DAWN. Match after match, the Fiscal and National stadiums were filled with yellow shirts and Colombian families cheering non-stop. “Having the Colombian people always supporting us motivates us, makes us feel at home, and pushes 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 pulls through. Colombia plays well, and we managed to hold the result until the end to take the bronze,” said José Cavadía.

In terms of collective performance, Colombia displayed constant growth, tactical maturity, and a competitive spirit that placed it among the most consistent teams of the tournament. The Cafetero team played with soul, with faith, and with a style that made Chile vibrate. And as the final whistle blew in Santiago, one certainty remained: this generation is not a promise — it is a reality.