We kick off Group C today at Noon ET/9am PT with Ivory Coast taking on Colombia
Where to watch –
Here’s the schedule for TV viewers in the United States.
English language: ESPN and WatchESPN
Spanish language: Univision, Univision Deportes Network and Univision online
Portuguese language: ESPN Deportes
Referee –
Howard Webb (England)
Starting lineups –
Colombia: Ospina, Zapata, Yepes (c), Sanchez, Armero, Aguilar, Gutierrez, Rodriguez, Cuadrado, Ibarbo, Zuniga
Ivory Coast: Barry, Boka, Zokora, Tiote, Gervinho, Bony, Gradel, Aurier, Y Toure (c), Serey, Bamba.
Ivory Coast –
They got off to a positive start this campaign following their 2-1 comeback win over Japan, which put them in good stead for the remainder of the group stages. However, they face a much sterner challenge now in the form of the Colombians.
Colombia –
The absence of their injured talisman Radamel Falcao seems to have had no effect on Colombia as they have got their World Cup challenge off to a flyer following a 3-0 domination over a sorry Greece. Another win today, and they might very well have one foot in the Round of 16.
Statistics –
Ivory Coast created as many as 14 chances against Japan, but could only succeed in putting away 2 of them. The likes of Wilfried Bony, Didier Drogba and Solomon Kalou will be looking to be more clinical up front tonight.
Colombia were not only exciting and fruitful while going ahead, they were also very organized in defense with no defensive errors throughout their 90 minutes. Their coach Sabri Lamouchi will ask for more of the same from his boys.
Men to watch out for –
Wide man James Rodriguez was impressive last time around, and earned himself a goal while also scooping up the Man of the Match award. The Ivorian full-backs will have their work cut out to stop the threat posed by him.
Gervinho had a good outing against Japan and the Roma attacker will be hoping to carry on the momentum into this one.
Prediction –
It could be an open-ended and exciting game to watch, given the attacking prowess both of them possess. I expect goals from both the sides, but also expect them to share the spoils and earn a point each.
Ivory Coast 2-2 Colombia
Do you agree with me? If not, then who do you expect to snatch a victory? Also, which individual according to you will stand out today? Tell us in the comments section below.
