The Colombian National Team visits Bolivia in a very important match in their aspirations to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, on date 9 of the South American Qualifiers.
With 16 points, located in second place in the standings, the Sele is going for a victory that puts pressure on the leader Argentinaprecisely a rival to the one he beat last date.
However, in addition to the tough rival, who has just defeated Chile As a visitor, the other great adversary that Néstor Lorenzo’s team has is the altitude.
The meeting takes place at Municipal Stadium of El Alto, more than 4 thousand meters above sea level, in one of the highest cities in the world.
El Alto, an intimidating haven for visitors (Getty)
How high is the El Alto Municipal Stadium?
The El Alto court, where they play Bolivia vs. Colombia, It is located 4085 meters above sea level.
What is the El Alto Municipal Stadium like?
A symbol of sporting and cultural pride for Bolivia. Opened in 2017, this sports venue has witnessed the growing passion for football in a region that has gained relevance not only for its altitude, but also for its social and economic development.
Located in the city of El Alto, on the outskirts of Peace, The stadium is presented as a platform for Bolivian sport, particularly football, although it is also used for other sporting and cultural events. The stadium has a capacity of 25,000 spectators, and its construction was a response to the city’s need for a modern sports infrastructure in line with the population growth of the region.
Bolivia and the always difficult El Alto stadium (Getty)
A Colossus in the Clouds
What differentiates the El Alto Municipal Stadium from other venues is not only its imposing high-altitude location, but the physical challenge it presents to both players and visiting teams. The geographical conditions mean that playing here requires special preparation, since the lower amount of oxygen at these altitudes affects physical performance, which has given local teams an advantage that has been the subject of debate in international competitions.
This factor has turned the stadium into a fortress that is difficult to assault for the teams.The visitors, both in the Bolivian league and in continental competitions. Teams that visit this venue usually feel the wear and tear from the first minutes of the game, which has made the “height of El Alto” an important factor to consider in the strategy of rival teams.
A Boost for Football and Community
The stadium has been fundamental to the growth of football in El Alto and its surroundings. Local teams, such as Always Readyhave found in this venue an ideal place to develop their talent and compete at a professional level. Since its opening, The stadium has hosted numerous Bolivian league matches, attracting thousands of fans who see football not only as entertainment, but as an engine of social change in one of the most dynamic cities in Bolivia.
Besides, the stadium has become an epicenter of community activity. Cultural events, festivals and recreational activities are held in its facilities, making it a multifunctional space that goes beyond sports. The infrastructure has training areas, modern locker rooms and recreation areas that have been key to the development of future generations of Bolivian athletes.