More Copa América action continues on Saturday with the final two quarter-final matchups.
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James Rodriguez show inspires Colombia past Panama
Scorers: Cordobe 8′, Rodriguez 15′ (P), Diaz 41′, Rios 70′, Borja 90+4′ (P)
James Rodriguez’s brilliance was the centre of attention at the University of Phoenix Stadium as Colombia emphatically beat Panama 5-0.
They are now a stunning 27 games unbeaten, largely thanks to the individual showing from their captain.
Rodriguez delivered an inch-perfect corner kick for Jhon Cordoba to head home before scoring from the penalty spot minutes later.
Unfortunately for Panama, their threatening flurries couldn’t kickstart a comeback and their finishing touches were of poor quality. They notably outshot Colombia 14 to six, but Jose Fajardo, Edgar Barcenas and Ismael Diaz all fell short.
Rodriguez later sent through on goal with a smart and quick free-kick, which saw the Liverpool ace chip home Colombia’s third.
Panama managed to stifle the captain’s influence in the second half, but the damage was already done. A late fourth courtesy of Richard Rios’ rocket of a shot piled on the misery before Miguel Borja converted a second penalty in the dying seconds.
After this individual show, Rodriguez has five assists and one goal. He’s the first Colombian to register that tally of assists at any major tournament.
Next, we will bring you all the drama from vs. . Buckle up!