Colombia tops World Cup Group C, eliminates Japan with 4-1 victory
Posted Jun 25, 2014 09:38:51 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
CUIABA, Brazil – Substitute James Rodriguez scored a brilliant goal and set up two more for Jackson Martinez as Colombia beat Japan 4-1 on Tuesday to confirm top spot in Group C and eliminate the Asian champions from the World Cup.
Already assured of advancing, Colombia guaranteed first place with its third straight win, setting up a second-round match against Uruguay.
The Colombians started with a virtual second-string lineup but still went in front when Juan Cuadrado _ one of the few regular starters _ drilled in a 17th-minute penalty.
Japan equalized with the last touch of the first half through Shinji Okazaki’s header but Martinez scored in the 55th and 82nd minutes _ both from superb passes from Rodriguez _ to put the result beyond doubt.
