Experience is typically associated with seniority, but 21-year-old Linda Caicedo can already be counted among Colombia’s seasoned campaigners. Despite her tender age, it is almost three years since the Real Madrid starlet made her debut for the Spanish giants and almost seven since she earned her first senior international cap.
The forward spoke to FIFA about what it would mean to feature at the , which would be her second campaign at the global showpiece. from their next two matches to keep qualification in their own hands. on 5 June before travelling to four days later.
Linda Caicedo: As soon as we played our last match against Argentina, when we could have booked our ticket to the World Cup with a win, we've been looking ahead to our next tie in Cali against Uruguay. A draw would be enough for us, but we’re going into the game determined to win. We want to do our fans proud and pick up six points from these two matches. Finishing top of the World Cup qualifying group is clearly the most important thing.
I think every player dreams of playing on the biggest stage. I’m so lucky that I might have the opportunity to play in my second World Cup aged only 22 and I might even be able to draw on some experience, despite still being very young. Our focus is now on these last two qualifying games, with the belief that we can seal qualification and earn our place in Brazil.
The most important things at that time were probably my game, my goals and the character I showed when playing with people who were older than me. My first call-up was far from easy because I was coming into a close-knit group that already had its own dynamic. But I gradually found my place. Everyone welcomed me with open arms from day one and I think that support has helped me to grow into a key part of the squad.
We always try to do our best in every competition. We know the quality we have within this team. The number of our players who are successfully plying their trade abroad speaks volumes about Colombian talent. Reaching those quarter-finals and then the Copa America final says a lot about how far we’ve come as a team. We’re obviously hungry for more, but it’s a testament to our league and the tremendous progress we’ve made.
I think expectations have naturally risen as the years have gone by. When you first break into the national team, there isn’t the same spotlight on you. Now I’ve learned to embrace those demands and channel them in the right way. Whenever I play for my country, I want to give my very best – whether that’s by scoring goals, making assists or contributing to the team. I’m always looking to improve and I believe I’ve got plenty more to give.
Winning a trophy for my country would mean everything. I have plenty of dreams, but I’d love to win something with Colombia. We’ve come within touching distance on two occasions, at the [FIFA U-17] World Cup in India and, more recently, with the Copa America. I truly believe we keep getting stronger with every step we take. The talent in Colombian football has no limits and I’m certain the time for trophies will come. When they do, we’ll make sure to enjoy it!
Just the thought of playing in a World Cup in Brazil is enough to make anyone smile. It would be incredible to share the experience with my family in such a football-mad country. The dream is within our grasp, and we’re not going to let it get away from us. These competitions are where new stars are born. It all happens so quickly, the stakes are high and every moment is there to be enjoyed. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience and we all want to be part of it.
I was much more nervous because it was my first World Cup. Now I know what to expect and how to handle it. I think I’ll enjoy the experience even more. That takes the pressure off and calms the nerves. The idea is to savour every moment, but first we’ve got to wrap things up and beat Uruguay and Paraguay. Then we can turn our attention to what promises to be a special tournament.
I’m so lucky to have played for my country in so many tournaments, starting at youth level and working my way up to the senior team. Of course, every competition and every culture is different, but they have all helped me to grow and develop. I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to have been part of so many wonderful tournaments.
Sources: FIFA Official
