Football

Colombia exacted revenge for their Copa America final defeat by edging out Argentina 2-1 in a thrilling South American qualifying match for the 2026 World Cup. The victory propelled Colombia to second place in the standings, just two points behind leaders Argentina.Colombia's triumph was orchestrated by captain James Rodriguez, who coolly converted a 60th-minute penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after Nicolas Otamendi's reckless challenge on Daniel Munoz. Rodriguez's goal proved decisive, as Argentina's penalty specialist Emiliano Martinez was unable to stop it.The match began brightly for Colombia, who took the lead in the 25th minute through Yerson Mosquera's header. However, Argentina responded swiftly after the break, with Nicolas Gonzalez equalizing in the 48th minute.Despite the setback, Colombia remained resolute and regained the lead through Rodriguez's penalty. The victory was a sweet moment for Colombia, who had been defeated by Argentina in the Copa America final just two months prior.Meanwhile, Brazil's qualifying campaign hit a snag as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Paraguay in Asuncion. Diego Gomez's long-range strike in the 20th minute proved to be the difference, leaving Brazil in fifth place in the standings.Elsewhere, Chile's hopes of qualifying took a further blow as they lost 2-1 at home to Bolivia. Carmelo Algaranaz and Miguel Terceros scored for Bolivia, while Chile's only goal came from Alexis Sanchez. The defeat leaves Chile languishing in ninth place, with their chances of reaching the World Cup dwindling.In other matches, Ecuador boosted their qualification hopes with a 1-0 win over Peru in Quito, while Uruguay and Venezuela played out a goalless draw.

The Copa America 2024 is set to culminate in a grand finale on Sunday, July 15, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The closing ceremony promises to be a spectacle, featuring a captivating performance by Colombian music icon Shakira.The Copa America final will pit Argentina against Colombia, two footballing powerhouses led by their respective superstars, Lionel Messi and James Rodriguez. Rodriguez has been a driving force for Colombia throughout the tournament, setting up a record-breaking six assists. Messi, on the other hand, has faced some challenges due to a recent injury but remains a formidable presence on the pitch.The closing ceremony will take place during halftime of the final, which is scheduled to begin at 5:30 AM IST. While the ceremony will not be telecasted live in India, fans can follow updates and highlights on social media and news websites.Shakira's performance is highly anticipated, as she is known for her electrifying stage presence and captivating vocals. Her appearance will add a touch of glamour and excitement to the already thrilling atmosphere of the Copa America final.The Copa America 2024 has been a highly competitive tournament, showcasing the best of South American football. The closing ceremony will be a fitting end to the competition, celebrating the passion, skill, and camaraderie that have defined the tournament.

James Rodriguez, the Colombian maestro who captivated the world at the 2014 World Cup, has rediscovered his brilliance on the international stage. Despite a decade of disappointment at club level, the 33-year-old playmaker has been instrumental in leading his team to the Copa America final.Rodriguez's impact on Colombia's run to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup was undeniable. His six goals included a stunning volley against Uruguay that won FIFA's Puskas Award. His performances earned him a move to Real Madrid, but he failed to live up to expectations and his club career has been marked by a series of loan spells and transfers.However, with Colombia, Rodriguez has found a renewed sense of purpose. Coach Nestor Lorenzo has given him a central role, allowing him to dictate play and create chances for his teammates. Rodriguez has responded with a tournament-record six assists and a goal."Since I took over the national team, I followed him and whenever he played (for his clubs) he did interesting things but we needed him to play," said Lorenzo.Rodriguez's resurgence has been a boon for Colombia. His clever passing and ability to find space have unlocked defenses and brought the best out of the team's attacking talents."The chance for a great player to play and get minutes gives him the opportunity to show what he can do. If he plays less, he is going to have less chance," added Lorenzo.Rodriguez's teammates are full of praise for their talisman. Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, who has been one of Colombia's standout performers at the Copa America, described Rodriguez as his idol."He has always been my idol along with (Radamel) Falcao and (Juan Guillermo) Cuadrado, who I used to watch on television when I was a kid. I keep telling James: 'You're a superstar! I admire you a lot and you deserve it,'" said Diaz.While Argentina are the favorites in Sunday's final, Colombia and Rodriguez will be determined to make history. A victory would give Colombia their second Copa America title and provide Rodriguez with a fitting end to a rollercoaster career.

Colombia's resilience and determination were on full display as they overcame a red card and a hostile crowd to secure a 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the Copa America semi-finals. The triumph sends Colombia to the championship match against Lionel Messi's Argentina, extending their unbeaten streak to a record 28 games.The match was a physical battle from the outset, with both teams trading fouls and yellow cards. In the 39th minute, Colombia's Jefferson Lerma broke the deadlock with a header from James Rodríguez's corner kick. The goal was Lerma's third international strike and his second of the tournament.However, Colombia's joy was short-lived as Daniel Muñoz was sent off in first-half stoppage time for a second yellow card. The dismissal forced Colombia to play the entire second half with 10 men.Despite the numerical disadvantage, Colombia defended valiantly, with goalkeeper David Ospina making several crucial saves. Uruguay pressed forward in search of an equalizer, but they were unable to find a way past the resolute Colombian defense.The match was marred by several incidents of crowd trouble, with players from both teams being pushed and shoved after the final whistle. Some players even entered the stands to confront fans.Colombia's victory is a testament to their mental fortitude and their ability to overcome adversity. They will now face Argentina in the final, where they will aim to win their first Copa America title since 2001.

James Rodriguez, the Colombian maestro, orchestrated a vintage performance to guide his team to a 2-1 victory over Paraguay in their Copa America opener. The 32-year-old midfielder, who has faced challenges in his club career since his stellar 2014 World Cup display, showcased his enduring brilliance in Houston.Rodriguez's influence was evident from the outset, as he created both goals for Colombia. In the 32nd minute, he delivered a pinpoint cross from the left flank to Daniel Munoz, who headed home to give Colombia the lead. Ten minutes later, Rodriguez's wicked free-kick from the opposite flank found Jefferson Lerma, who glanced it in to double the advantage.Colombia maintained their dominance in the second half, but Paraguay's Julio Enciso reduced the deficit in the 69th minute. However, Colombia remained composed and controlled the tempo, threatening Paraguay's defense with their incisive attacks.In the 84th minute, Colombia believed they had earned a penalty when Yerry Mina was seemingly fouled in the box. However, after a VAR review, the referee overturned the decision.Colombia will face Costa Rica in their second group game on Friday before concluding their first-round campaign against tournament favorites Brazil on July 2.