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Venezuela Faces Bolivia in Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
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Venezuela, currently fourth in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, is set to visit Bolivia this afternoon. The match comes with significant absences for the Venezuelan side, including Jhon Chancellor, Wilker Ángel, and Yangel Herrera. Bolivia will be under new management and playing at a high altitude of over 4,000 meters in El Alto, aiming for their second victory in the qualifiers.
Stadium Change for Bolivia
The Bolivian national team, managed by Óscar Villegas, has moved their home ground from the Hernando Siles Stadium in La Paz, which is situated at 3,581 meters above sea level, to the Municipal Stadium in El Alto, reaching 4,090 meters. This decision was made to enhance the team’s performance in the ongoing qualifying campaign.
Villegas’ Ambitions
Although Villegas refrained from making bold promises regarding qualification for the 2026 World Cup, he has set the goal of securing a victory against Venezuela to improve Bolivia’s standing in the qualifiers.
Training Strategies
To prepare, Bolivia has scheduled intensive double-shift training sessions at both Siles and The Strongest headquarters. Additionally, the team will conduct closed-door practices at the “Titán” stadium in Villa Ingenio, El Alto.
Player Absences
Bolivia will be without midfielder Boris Céspedes, who is sidelined due to injury, and youth player Adalid Terrazas, who chose to join his new team, USM Alger of Algeria.
Venezuela’s Strengths
Led by Argentine coach Fernando “Bocha” Batista, Venezuela is coming off a strong performance in a recent continental tournament. The team advanced through the group stage undefeated, only falling to Canada in the quarterfinals via penalty shootouts.
Current Rankings
Venezuela has witnessed a significant rise in the FIFA rankings, climbing 17 positions to 37th place, whereas Bolivia sits at 89th after not advancing past the group stage of the Copa América.
Strategic Approach for the Match
La Vinotinto has adopted a common strategy for teams playing at Bolivian altitude, starting their journey in Santa Cruz, which is about 400 meters above sea level, before traveling to El Alto on match day.
Projected Starting Lineup
Key players likely to start for Venezuela include Yeferson Soteldo, Eduard Bello, Jon Aramburu, top scorer Salomón Rondón, and captain Tomás Rincón. The goalkeeping position may see Rafael Romo or Alain Baroja, who is familiar with the “Titán” stadium, being chosen by coach Batista.
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Above sea level, to the more elevated Estadio Municipal de El Alto. This stadium, located at over 4,000 meters, presents a unique challenge for visiting teams, as the high altitude can significantly impact players’ endurance and performance.
Venezuela’s Challenges
Venezuela enters this match with a mix of optimism and trepidation. They have shown improved form in the qualifiers, but the absence of key players like Jhon Chancellor, a central defender, Wilker Ángel, a left-back, and midfielder Yangel Herrera could weaken their lineup. Coach Fernando Batista will need to adjust tactics and perhaps rely on younger players stepping up to fill the gaps left by these absences.
Bolivia’s New Direction
Under Óscar Villegas, Bolivia is looking to revitalise their squad after a string of disappointing results. The team’s focus will be on leveraging their home advantage and the altitude to secure a much-needed win. The Bolivian players are determined to give their fans something to cheer about after struggling to make an impact in the standings.
Match Preview
Kickoff is expected to be at local time, and fans are eager to see how both teams adapt to the conditions. With the stakes high for both squads, this matchup promises to be an exciting and tense affair as Venezuela battles against the odds in a challenging environment.
As both teams strive for vital points in their quest for World Cup qualification, all eyes will be on El Alto this afternoon.
