Belgium vs. Colombia: Final score 0-2, Falcao wins it for Los Cafeteros
Colombia has won the hipster derby! They’re the official World Cup dark horses because science.
There were very few chances for either side in the first half, with both teams defending well. Christian Benteke was the most dangerous player for either team in the opening 45 minutes, missing on a couple of half-chances, while Colombia struggled to create anything of real substance.
The visitors sparked to life early in the second half, though their opening goal was a bit of a gift. Thomas Meunier failed to step up with his teammates on a through ball to Falcao, leaving him well onside in acres of space with no defenders between him and Simon Mignolet. The Liverpool goalkeeper did well to challenge Falcao and get a hand on the ball, but couldn’t stop him from scoring.
Colombia introduced Victor Ibarbo in the 60th minute and he capitalized on a set piece just six minutes after entering the game. James had a big part in the setup again, delivering the free kick that would eventually lead to his team's second goal. Luis Perea got on the end of it and knocked the ball down to Ibarbo, who settled the ball and himself before smashing a powerful half-volley into the back of the net
Belgium were the better team after that, but didn't find a goal. Substitute Dries Mertens hit the post at the end of a brilliant run in the 82nd minute for his team's best chance, while Kevin Mirallas was a bit unlucky not to get a penalty on a close play where he looked like he was tripped by Faryd Mondragon.
Belgium: Mignolet, Vertonghen, Vermaelen, Meunier, Alderweireld, Fellaini, Witsel, Defour (Mirallas 58’), Hazard (Mertens 66’), Benteke (Dembele 75’), De Bruyne (Lukaku 58’)
Goals: None
Colombia: Mondragon, Armero, Perea, Zapata, Arias, Ramirez (Aguilar 63’), Sanchez (Mejia 85’), Rodriguez (Torres 79’), Muriel (Ibarbo 60’), Falcao (Martinez 71’), Cuadrado (Guarin 69’)
Goals: Falcao (51’), Ibarbo (66’)
