Colombia sees red and Japan celebrates

Colombia's fans were already disappointed before kick-off. The 2014 World Cup quarter-finalist started the game without Rodriguez, who was initially sitting on the bench due to muscular problems. Buoyed by vocal support from the stands, the South Americans started briskly - and ran into ruin.

First sending off of the World Cup: Carlos Sanchez clears with his hand Central defender Davinson Sanchez acted too casually in a duel against Japan striker Osako, goalkeeper David Ospina was able to clear, but Kagawa's follow-up shot was cleared by Carlos Sanchez with his outstretched arm. Referee Damir Skomina did not need video evidence. He pulled out the first red card of this final, and Kagawa scored the penalty straight into the middle of the goal. Japan's dream start was perfect.

The Colombians responded with vehement attacks, often advancing dangerously far. Their top striker Radamel Falcao, playing at a World Cup for the first time, was there with his toe after a free kick, but Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima was in the right position (12'). In an intense and entertaining game, Japan missed a great opportunity to make it 2-0 after a counterattack by Takashi Inui (15th). Ball behind the line: The goal for Colombia counted. © APA/afp / MLADEN ANTONOV

For the “Cafeteros”, coach Jose Pekerman took Juventus player Juan Cuadrado off the field for tactical reasons. The Argentinean saw his efforts rewarded before the break. Falcao took a free kick that was unlikely to be given, Quintero stepped up and scored with a shot under the high-jumping Japanese wall. Kawashima stopped the ball clearly behind the goal line, his protest was futile. Osako rewards Japan The Colombian enthusiasm was lost after the break. The Japanese created chances, but in the case of Osako (54th), they were too ineffective. Meanwhile, Ospina cleared with a save against Inui (57th). After an hour, Pekerman brought on Rodriguez, Brazil's World Cup top scorer, who immediately tried to take control of the game. After their race to catch up, the Colombians no longer looked as physically present as their opponents.

Japan finally rewarded itself. Osako rose high after a corner from substitute Keisuke Honda and headed in. The 35th goal of this World Cup came from a set piece for the 19th time. Rodriguez was no longer able to give any impetus to Colombia's game. Japan delivered the result over time without any trepidation.

Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

Colombia sees red and Japan celebrates

Japan won its World Cup opener against Colombia 2-1. The Asians also benefited from an early red card against the South Americans.

Suggestions

Comments (0)