This is just the third time in Colombia’s history of participation in the World Cup that they are going to the knockout stages. They will be up against England this Tuesday, as they look to go even further in the tournament. Will Colombia send England home? Or will it be the other way around?
Colombia did not look like they’re headed to at least this part of the tournament when they fell to Japan in the opener to the tune of a 2-1 score. Los Cafeteros quickly changed everybody’s minds, though, when it stitched two-straight impressive wins over Poland (3-0) and Senegal (1-0). Colombia, however, could not celebrate too much after clinching a ticket to the round of 16, as they are seemingly very much concerned on the status of star midfielder James Rodriguez, who sustained an injury against Senegal. In case Rodriguez will not start or not play at all, Radamel Falcao will have a heavier load on his shoulders, as the team’s main guy up front. Falcao has a goal to his name in Russia with a score against Poland. Juan Fernando Quintero will also be expected to step up as Colombia’s top playmaker in the midfield should Rodriguez misses time.
Betting on England (-130)
The Three Lions are riding on the back of Harry Kane, who, despite not playing in the 1-0 loss to Belgium last week, has five goals to his name so far in the tournament. Without a doubt, Kane will have a target on his back, though, Colombia can’t overcommit to him since Kane is barely the only dangerous striker for the England side. Apart from Kane, England also have Marcus Rashford and Jamie Vardy. There’s also Raheem Sterling, who’s also a constant threat. Kane and Sterling sat out the Belgium match to rest and get their bodies as ready as possible for the knockout stages, and their return to the lineup should be a boost for The Three Lions. England hold a dominant 5-0 all-time record against Colombia. The last time the two squads met in the World Cup was in 1998, when England took down Los Cafeteros, 2-0, in the group stage.
