Uncapped Hinestroza earns Colombia call-up for World Cup qualifiers

BOGOTA, March 13 (Xinhua) -- Uncapped midfielder Marino Hinestroza was called up to Colombia's squad on Thursday for World Cup qualifiers against Brazil and Paraguay.

The 22-year-old was rewarded for an impressive start to the 2025 season with Atletico Nacional in Colombia's top flight, in which he has scored two goals and provided two assists in six matches.

As expected, manager Nestor Lorenzo also included Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, Leon playmaker James Rodriguez, Al-Nassr striker Jhon Duran and America de Cali midfielder Juan Quintero.

Colombia will face Brazil in Brasilia on March 20 and Paraguay in Barranquilla five days later.

Lorenzo's men are currently fourth in the 10-team South American zone standings with 19 points from 12 qualifiers, six points behind leaders Argentina. ■