It’s all still to play for in Group H as Senegal go head to head with Colombia in the final round of group stage matches. Both sides can still top their group as well as face elimination depending on this result and what happens between Japan and Poland. The South Americans are rightly favourites here after a scintillating display against the Poles, however, the Africans will be quietly confident off the back of two solid performances.
FIFA World Cup
Senegal vs Colombia
Group H
Thursday 28 June
Samara Arena
16:00
To Win
Senegal 32/10
Draw 5/2
Colombia 17/20
Senegal
Aliou Cissé will be a bit disappointed with the fact that his charges relinquished the lead on two occasions against the Japanese on Sunday evening. Failure to win that game means that the West Africans have to get at least a point out of this fixture to ensure progression to the next round.
I have to say that Senegal weren’t as dominant as I’d expected them to be against a physically inferior Japanese outfit. They endured a few shaky moments defensively with goalkeeper Khadim N’Diaye not covering himself in glory for the two goals.
Nonetheless, the Senegalese still remain a pretty potent threat going forward, even if there is a perceived weakness at the back. Sadio Mane opened his account at the tournament in fortuitous circumstances while M’Baye Niang’s clever back-heel flick led to Moussa Wague’s smashing finish as Senegal went ahead for the second time in the match.
I just don’t know whether or not their pace and power will be as effective against a Colombian back four who are very much Senegal’s equals when it comes to the physical side of things. That said, it should prove a fascinating battle if the Senegalese can settle down and start playing their natural game.
Colombia
What a performance from the Colombians against Poland as they kept their World Cup dream alive. The difference James Rodriguez made to the starting XI was evident as the Real Madrid man (on loan at Bayern Munich) produced two outstanding assists for Yerry Mina and Juan Cuadrado’s goals.
Cuadrado was a constant threat and teased the Polish defence with his pace and trickery. You can rest assured that there will be more of the same when the South Americans take to the pitch against the Africans who are tipped to struggle defensively.
Don’t expect any changes to the XI that take to the pitch on Wednesday. Of course, there are question marks around the fitness of David Ospina who appeared to be struggling with his right foot and ankle in the latter stages of their match against Poland.
Neither of the two remaining ‘keepers in the squad have much experience. Jose Fernando Cuadrado and Camilo Vargas share just six senior international caps between them. Just something to keep in mind before having a bet
Probable line-ups:
Senegal: 4-3-3
K. N’Diaye; Sabaly, Koulibaly, Sane, Wague; P. N’Diaye, A. N’Diaye, Gueye; Mane, Niang, Sarr
Colombia: 4-2-3-1
Ospina; Arias, Sanchez, Mina, Mojica; Aguilar, Barrios; Rodriguez, Quintero, Cuadrado; Facao
Prediction: Colombia (17/20)
There’s only one winner here for me. The Colombians were ruthless in their dismantling of the Polish side and look a different team with James pulling the strings. With a number of their heavyweights also finding from (Falcao and Cuadrado), the South Americans should claim the points here and give themselves the best possible chance of finishing top of the group.
Written by Jason Dewey