Match 23 - Brazil 1-1 Colombia
While the teams matched each other in possession, Brazil turned that into pressure inside the box, while Colombia used it to produce nearly double the shots Brazil did. Though, with Brazil taking the lead through an excellent Raphinha free kick on 12 minutes, Colombia were playing catch up.
As a team unbeaten since February 2022, Colombia know how to ensure games go enough their way to not lose and in extra time at the end of the first half Munoz's shot from close range brought things level. The second half continued to be close and the best chance for a decided fell to Colombia with six minutes of regular time left, but Borre put the ball over the bar.
The draw ensures Colombia top the group and both teams go to the Quarter-finals.
Should they meet again in the Semi-final, expect another close game.
Match 24 - Costa Rica 0-0 Paraguay
When Costa Rica went 2-0 up inside seven minutes it looked like they were going to try and deal with the swing in goal difference requried to finish second in the group by themselves. But that was as good as things got. Two shots, two shots on goal, two goals. Paraguay dominated possession through the game and battered Costa Rica's goal but Sequeira managed to do something Morínigo had failed at, making saves. Of the six on target he saved five but the 55th minute goal he did concede was not enough and Paraguay leave the tournament humiliated by three losses from three matches. Costa Rica also depart, but with this win and a draw against Brazil they have more to brag about.
| Match Number | Teams | 1st Half Score | 2nd Half Score | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | Brazil v Colombia | 1-1 | 0-0 | 1-1 |
| 24 | Costa Rica v Paraguay | 2-0 | 0-1 | 2-1 |
| Total Matchday Goals | 4 | 1 | 5 | |
| Total Tournament Goals | 21 | 32 | 53 |
The next match is the first Quarter-final which happens in the early hours of Friday my time.
Tomorrow I'll look at how my predictions for the groups panned out, and make some more for the Quarter-finals
text by stuartcturnbull art by CONMEBOL & altered by stuartcturnbull