Mexico City, Guadalajara, Miami and Kansas City mark the stops on Colombia's World Cup path over the past three weeks. Supporters are now converging on Vancouver to back Néstor Lorenzo's squad as they aim for their first quarter-final appearance in 12 years against Switzerland on Tuesday. After stops in Mexico and the United States, the famous yellow wave is set to reach Canada.

Such large-scale fan travel, which brings color and enthusiasm to host venues, echoes the scenes from the 2014 tournament in Brazil. James Rodríguez spoke to supporters ahead of the trip to North America, urging them to channel positive energy through social media and in person after some issues during the 2024 Copa América in the US.

"We always give everything and that positive energy is contagious," Rodríguez said. "I ask fans to bring good vibes, keep them going and behave properly."

Rodríguez has seen limited action this tournament and was replaced at half-time in the last-32 win over Ghana in Kansas City. The night before, the team appeared on their hotel balcony to cheers from supporters, an emotional moment even in a city without a large Colombian community. Luis Díaz later thanked fans online for their backing.

Following the team has become a family tradition for many. Juan Carlos Mila, 54, traveled with his wife, children and their partners. They attended the opener against Uzbekistan in Mexico City, missed the next match in Guadalajara due to ticket shortages and then rented a minivan to cover games in Miami and Kansas City, logging thousands of miles.

"We brought shirts, hats and flags," Mila said. His children began selling merchandise to help cover costs. "They said it is not embarrassing to sell things, only to get caught stealing." The family also created a large flag with cutouts for their heads that reads "Colombia Mundial 2026."

Opponents have noted the impact of the support. Portugal coach Roberto Martínez called the Miami match an away game because of the crowd. Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz praised the passion after his side's exit, saying the fans helped Colombia start strongly and affected his players' composure.

Back home the national shirt sparked debate during presidential elections. Right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella wore it publicly, drawing criticism from rival Iván Cepeda, who later donned it himself at events after the federation declined to restrict its use.

Despite the controversy, the team remains a unifying force. Mila believes the players will give everything in Vancouver. "They do not want to lose the ball or the match," he said. "That attitude spreads to everyone."