Colombia’s World Cup hopes came to an end this Saturday as the national team lost 2-4 to Chile. A top five classification is now out of reach for Eduardo Lara’s men.
Things initially went well for Colombia at Medellin‘s Atanasio Girardot stadium, as the score was opened after 13 minutes. Jackson Martinez’ slow shot would have missed the target but Chile defender Arturo Vidal helped the hosts by redirecting it for 1-0.
Although Colombia continued to dominate in the first half, Chile managed an impressive turn-around in the 34th and 35th minutes. Waldo Ponce first headed home after a free kick and Humberto Suazo’s header from close range then put Chile in the lead.
Substitute Giovanni Moreno gave Colombia new hope with a powerful strike in the 63rd minute, but rather than scoring a third goal, it was instead Chile to restore the lead nine minutes later as Jorge Valdivia beat keeper Ospina with a low and well-aimed shot.
Colombia piled pressure on the Chilean defense with the task of having to score two goals, but knew that it salvation was practically impossible when Fabian Orellanas struck home from a distance with Ospina well away from his goal.
Chile move into second place in the South American qualifying zone and secure a spot at next year’s World Cup. Brazil and Paraguay have qualified as well.