Colombia finished top of Group K after an intense goalless draw with Portugal in Miami, but the match ended with major controversy after Davinson Sanchez had a late goal ruled out for offside.
The South Americans thought they had taken all three points in the 90th minute when Sanchez headed past Diogo Costa. However, the assistant referee raised the flag, and replays showed that the defender’s right boot was narrowly beyond the Portugal back line when the cross came in. The decision was technically correct, but it still frustrated Colombia’s players, supporters and pundits watching on.
Former England striker Wayne Rooney, speaking on BBC coverage, strongly disagreed with the call and said the goal looked onside to him. Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo later added humour to the situation, joking that Sanchez might need to see a podologist before the next game.
Although the decision did not change the final group positions, it prevented Colombia from earning a victory they arguably deserved. Portugal needed to win to overtake Colombia and finish first, but they struggled for long spells against a high energy Colombian side backed by a passionate crowd in south Florida.
Jhon Cordoba, given a place in the starting line up, almost made an instant impact when he headed over inside the opening minute. Soon after, Costa had to produce an excellent one handed stop to keep him out. Portugal slowly grew into the contest, and Camilo Vargas made an outstanding close range save from Bruno Fernandes before half time.
Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, was once again the main focus for Portugal, but he found it difficult to influence the game. After scoring twice in the 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, Ronaldo was quieter here, similar to his display in the earlier 1-1 draw with DR Congo.
Colombia continued to push after the break, with Richard Rios and Gustavo Puerta both going close. Luis Suarez also missed a huge chance when he volleyed over with the goal open, before Sanchez’s late header was disallowed.
Despite ending a World Cup match without scoring for the first time since their defeat to England in 1998, Colombia will take plenty of confidence from this performance. They attempted 24 of the match’s 37 shots, their highest recorded total in a World Cup game.
James Rodriguez also delivered a standout display, making a Colombian record 11th World Cup appearance and completing 38 passes in the final third. With Portugal likely to meet Spain and Colombia potentially heading towards Argentina later in the tournament, both teams remain dangerous knockout contenders.
