Colombia opened the Group C games of the World Cup with an extremely convincing win over Greece. Later that day the Ivory Coast fought back against Japan to secure a victory and place them second in the group. While it is early days, much can be learnt from these first games.
Colombia’s attacking energy and pace looks as if it will be a real threat to any team, especially the others in Group C. Greece on the other hand looked particularly weak and lost control of the game after just five minutes with the opening goal from Colombia.
While Japan started its game well and scored the opening goal, it soon became evident that the team didn’t have the strength or stamina to see the game through. Once Didier Drogba was brought on for the Ivory Coast it wasn’t long before they dominated the game and scored two goals in quick succession.
Colombia plays the Ivory Coast this Thursday and it is likely to be the closest game in this group. Both teams looked strong and disciplined in their opening games and will be eager for an additional three points to secure their progression to the next round. However, in some ways Japans match against Greece could be more interesting. Neither team is particularly strong on the international scene, but both have masses of nationalistic pride and will be out to prove that they have what it takes to get some points on the table.
Results
- Côte D’ivoire vs. Japan – 2-1
- Colombia vs Greece – 3-0
Group C
Upcoming Group Stage matches for Colombia
- Colombia vs. Ivory Coast – Thursday, 19 June 2014 Match Preview
- Japan vs Colombia – Tuesday, 24 June 2014, Match Preview
Upcoming Group Stage matches for Côte D’ivoire
- Colombia vs. Ivory Coast – Thursday, 19 June 2014 Match Preview
- Greece vs Ivory Coast – Tuesday, 24 June 2014, Match Preview
Upcoming Group Stage matches for Japan
- Japan vs. Greece – Thursday, 19 June 2014 Match Preview
- Japan vs Colombia – Tuesday, 24 June 2014, Match Preview
Upcoming Group Stage matches for Greece
- Japan vs. Greece, Thursday, 19 June 2014 Match Preview
- Greece vs. Ivory Coast, Tuesday, 24 June 2014 Match Preview