Both the teams will be heading into this game for a victory to confirm their berth in the last 16 stage of the 2014 Brazil World Cup. They cruised to comfortable wins as Colombia beat an inept Greece 3-0 while the team from Africa defeated the swift Japanese 2-1. Colombia, though, will be missing Radamel Falcao for this tie along with Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca due to injury concerns. For the Ivory Coast team it is likely that Wilfried Bony will start ahead of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. While Colombia is the favorite to win this tie the Elephants are not going to make it any easy for them as they have just the resources to outperform them.
Players to look out for:
The youngster James Rodriguez who has made heads turn in Europe with his performances will play a crucial role in his team’s attack. Victor Ibarbo, the most probable replacement in the striker position will be the key in front of the goal. Among their opponents, Wilfried Bony will be expected to replicate his success upfront yet again. Yaya Toure, the giant, is paramount in slowing down the Colombian attack and keeping them at bay and also in creating chances for his players. Captain Didier Drogba’s arrival in the second half had inspired his comrades to victory and will once again be looked upon for his vast experience to do the same.
Teams head-to-head:
The two teams have never faced each other.
Probable line-ups:
Colombia (4-2-3-1):David Ospina; Pablo Armero, Cristián Zapata, Mario Yepes, Juan Zúñiga; Carlos Sánchez, Abel Aguilar; Víctor Ibarbo, James Rodríguez, Juan Cuadrado; Teófilo Gutiérrez.
Ivory Coast (4-2-3-1): Boubacar Barry; Arthur Boka, Didier Zokora, Sol Bamba, Serge Aurier, Cheick Tioté, Serey Die; Salomon Kalou, Yaya Touré, Gervinho; Didier Drogba.
Prediction:
This will be a test of the two team’s attacking abilities, expect an entertaining fixture.
Final Score Predictions: Colombia 2 – 2 Ivory Coast.
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