After making a disappointing start to their Copa America campaign with a draw against minnows Bolivia, Argentina again failed to impress against Colombia and eventually were held to a goalless (0-0) draw. This result leaves the hosts in a dicey situation. Argentina only have 2 points from the 2 games they have played, whereas Colombia have 4 from the same number of games and sit at the top of group A. This means Argentina could go to their final game needing a win to qualify for the knockout stages, if Bolivia vs Costa Rica match produces a winner.
Argentina held to a disappointing draw by Colombia
Argentina coach Sergio Batista fielded almost an unchanged side. He replaced Spartak Moscow defender Marcos Rojo with Man City defender Pablo Zabaleta at the left back position. He also didn’t change his preferred 4-3-3 formation. The trio of Messi, Tevez and Lavezzi started well for Argentina and looked lively in the opening minutes. Though Argentina had more of the ball Colombia created the best chances of the game. Colombia focused on a counter attacking game, they were putting their bodies behind the ball while defending but always made a swift counter from defence to attack.
Colombia midfielder Danny Moreno missed a sitter in the 1st half. Gustavo Ramos was also guilty of missing a glorious opportunity for the Colombians. Colombians counter attacking game was causing problems for the Argentinians. The defensive pair of Gabriel Milito and Nicolas Burdisso didn’t look convincing at all. Argentinians raised their game in the second half with Messi providing the much needed spark. Batista’s substitutes also failed to make an impact as they were unable to break down the Colombians.
Tonight’s game Bolivia vs. Costa Rica will be very crucial. If Bolivia wins the tie and settle for a sporting draw against Colombia in their next match then the pressure will be on Argentina to win their next match against Costa Rica. The next Group A matches will take place on 10th of July.
Tags: Argentina, Colombia, Copa America, Football
