A header from Yuya Osako gave Japan their first win at a World Cup since 2010 and the first victory for any Asian side over a South American side.
Yuya Osako Delivers a Sucker-Punch to Colombia
James Rodriguez Fails to Make the Squad
Colombia’s main man from 2014 was set for another stunning World Cup campaign. But as 12 o’clock struck, his name was missing from the starting eleven. To many’s surprise, Juan Quintero got the nod ahead of the Bayern Munich man. It turns out that Rodriguez failed a late fitness test as a calf injury plagued on his debut in Russia.
Even though the main man was not included in the starting eleven, Qunitero took centre stage with a fantastic low free kick. But his first game was not delayed any longer as James Rodriguez replaced goalscorer Juan Quintero in the 59 minute.
Carlos Sanchez Went for an Early Bath
From the word go it seemed we were in for a treat. And within four minutes, controversy started as Colombia’s defensive midfielder stopped a goal-scoring opportunity with his hands. Davinson Sanchez made a meal of Japan’s long ball as Yuya Osako raced on and shot. But David Ospina makes a good save with Shinji Kawaga on the rebound to have his shot saved by Carlos Sanchez. It was a no-brainer for the referee as Carlos Sanchez was sent for a walk of shame down the tunnel.
Juan Quintero Free-Kick
As the first half went on it seemed Colombia were struggling to make an impact on the game as they went down to 10 men. However, it was not stopping Radamel Falcao being a pain for Japan’s back four. The number nine was softly bundled to the floor by Makoto Hasebe and won a free-kick on the edge of the box. Then it took a bit of genius by Juan Quintero as he waited for the wall to jump to only slip it under the and past the goalkeeper with goal-line technology in good use unlike last night VAR.
Osako Makes it 2-1 Japan
Japan’s number four Honda came on to replace Kawaga. Japan’s well-known player made a real difference to the game and provided the assist for Japan’s second goal. After Osako’s brilliant hold up play his effort paid off as he lept onto Honda’s brilliant delivery to put it past David Ospina with a tremendous header.
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