The report says Puerta is expected to continue in a three-man midfield alongside Jefferson Lerma and Jhon Arias. The role would represent another step for a player still establishing himself at senior international level.
His selection would also preserve Colombia’s familiar structure. Lerma offers defensive protection, while Arias can support possession and forward movement. That balance will be important against a Portugal side capable of punishing gaps between midfield and defence.
The expected lineup can be outlined as follows:
The report says Suarez is expected to be available after the shoulder issue that forced him off against DR Congo. His return would give Lorenzo a recognised central option and allow Colombia to keep James Rodriguez and Luis Diaz in their preferred supporting roles.
That attacking combination offers different threats. James brings creativity and experience, Diaz supplies ball-carrying power, and Suarez provides a focal point through the middle. The report credits the striker with 38 goals for Sporting Lisbon in 2025-26 and five goals in 14 international appearances, figures that underline his reported importance to the attack.
Colombia’s likely continuity could be valuable in a match where defensive discipline and attacking efficiency are both likely to matter. Portugal should test the spaces around Puerta and Lerma, while Colombia will need Suarez to connect the front line with midfield.
The next storyline is whether Lorenzo’s expected selections survive the final checks. If Puerta starts and Suarez is cleared to lead the line, Colombia will enter the Portugal match with a settled shape and a more complete attacking profile.