The Colombian national team earned a deserved victory over Bolivia on Saturday, winning the World Cup qualifier 2-0.
The Colombians were particularly dominant in the first half, and managed to create several chances. River Plate striker Radamel Falcao failed to take advantage of these opportunities however, denying Colombia a much more comfortable lead by half time.
But the lead would be taken on 26 minutes, when Macnelly Torres received the ball near the edge of the penalty area and then volleyed past keeper Arias for 1-0.
In the second half, Colombia seemed to lack inspiration and energy and the height of 2600 meters appeared to affect the home players. The Bolivians, altitude experts themselves, occasionally tried to break through the Colombian defense but much danger was never created.
Instead, Colombia scored a second goal in the 88th minute. One substitute striker found the other with Hugo Rodallega’s cross headed home by Wason Renteria.
Bolivia claimed that Renteria had been off-side, and the protests eventually led to a second yellow card for José Castillo.
Next Wednesday, the Colombian team face Venezuela in Puerto Ordaz. Both Fabian Vargas and Pablo Armero are suspended after picking up too many yellow cards.