Opening game of group C saw Columbia take on Greece.
This was Columbia's first World Cup since 1998 and they were in the party mood. A very loud and lively atmosphere was infectious as Columbia applied immediate pressure and opened the scoring with a goal in the first 5 minutes (and a contender for celebration of the tournament). Greece however, who do have a major tournament title under their belts nearly pulled one back after the restart. As the game continued the tempo slowed with some chances for both counties to score. Kone forced a great save (albeit one for the cameras) right at the end of the half which ended with Columbia taking a slender lead into half time.
Both teams needed to/wanted to improve from the first half and it was Greece who started the better team. A few attacks came to nothing as Columbia were just strong for any Greek advances, then a moment of honesty from Samaras as he went over in the box only to turn to the ref and indicate that it was not a foul. Columbia doubled their lead from a scruffy corner (they all count). We also may have had the miss of the tournament as Gekas headed onto the bar from 5yrds with the open goal in front of him. As the game drew to a close, Columbia finished as they started, strong and confident with Greece running out of stamina and ideas and a late late goal from Rodriguez made sure they take 3 points into their next game.
This is going to be a tough group for Greece if they do not improve, whereas Columbia, even without the injured Falcao, could qualify into the knockouts after this display.
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