Colombia have their sights set on reaching the Copa America semi-finals when they take on Panama this weekend at State Farm Stadium.
Colombia have just about lived up to expectations with their performances in Group D, as they topped the competitive group with Brazil, Costa Rica and Paraguay. Nestor Lorenzo’s side have looked like a well-oiled machine that doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon as they’ve managed 26 straight matches without a defeat.
The only change we’ll see from Lorenzo’s 4-3-3 system is whoever will replace Crystal Palace midfielder Jefferson Lerma since the 29-year-old picked up his second yellow card of the group stage vs Brazil. Lerma will be available for selection should Colombia progress to the semi-finals, but Mateus Uribe looks likely slot into his place in the starting lineup in the meantime.
Here’s how Colombia could lineup vs Panama in the Copa America quarter-finals.
GK: Camilo Vargas – The Atlas shot-stopper will hope to keep a clean sheet against a Panama side that scored six goals in the group stage.
RB: Daniel Munoz – The Crystal Palace full-back just might get on the scoresheet once more to play his part in Colombia reaching the next round.
CB: Davinson Sanchez – Sanchez has been in fine form for Colombia thus far and will be key to their chances of taking down Panama.
CB: Carlos Cuesta – The Genk defender starts for the second straight match with Jhon Lucumi out injured.
LB: Johan Mojica – Lorenzo opted to give the veteran full-back a breather last time out but will need him at the top of his game to advance in the competition.
CM: Richard Rios – Rios retains his place in the middle of the park, playing just behind Rodriguez.
CM: Mateus Uribe – With Lerma suspended due to yellow card accumulation, Uribe slots into the midfield.
CM: Jhon Arias – The winger-turned-midfielder is all set to start his fourth game at the tournament in the middle of the park.
RW: James Rodriguez – Lorenzo will look to lean on Rodriguez and hopes to he still has a bit of magic in his left foot to deliver from set pieces and create numerous chances.
ST: Jhon Cordoba – Cordoba gets the nod up front and his experience will be key in such a big match.
LW: Luis Diaz – The Liverpool winger will hope to add his second goal of the tournament against the rigid Panama defense.
