Copa America 2011 Quarterfinals, Colombia Vs. Peru: Lackluster First Half Ends Scoreless

Colombia certainly have Peru beat in talent, but their play in the first half of their 2011 Copa America quarterfinal hasn’t shown it. Though Los Cafeteros haven’t looked terribly ambitious in the first half, this 45 minute segment might be in indication that Peru’s defense throughout the group stage was not a fluke. The match is tied 0-0, and Peru deserve to be drawn with their opponents at this juncture. Both teams have been in a bit of a defensive shell, but Peru are looking more solid at the back and just as ambitious as their opponents.

Playmaker Fredy Guarin has been breaking down defenses for Colombia so far in this tournament, but Peru have impressively rendered him invisible so far. Radamel Falcao’s work rate has been superb, but his teammates have not helped him much at all. This match is resembling Colombia’s first two matches, in which Falcao ran all over the pitch but his work rate and skill was not matched.

Colombia has plenty of firepower on their bench, but it’s all up top. What they really need is another passing midfielder, and they don’t really have a great one other than Guarin. Hopefully the managers can make some sort of changes to cause this match to open up a bit, as it’s been a cagey affair.

Stick with this StoryStream for updates throughout the match. We will also have coverage of the later Argentina vs. Uruguay match. For all of our Copa America coverage, check out our 2011 Copa America section.