The Copa America Centenario continues with more activity in Group A, the first squad that managed to get three points will play against a South American foe. The California Rose Bowl will host its second match as the team managed by Jose Pekerman suffers the delicate absence of playmaker James Rodriguez. The Real Madrid player had to step out the match against the United States with an injured shoulder and will miss the match against Paraguay.
Pekerman will play with Cardona instead of James, the Monterrey midfielder said: "The responsibility to replace James is for everyone. We know the quality he has and what he means to us and for the national team. It makes our game easier when you are next to him for the quality he has. If I get chosen to play in that position I will do so for the benefit of my team. Of course, we have different characteristics, with James we have more ball possession."
Colombia's assistant boss, Nestor Lorenzo also spoke to the press: "Beyond the speculation on whether James will play or not – we will see how he progresses – I would rather talk about the characteristics of Dayro Moreno. He has penetration and good pace that allows us to use him in that position [playmaker] with good results. We think he is a versatile player - he can also help us playing further back."
The team manager by Ramon Diaz will attempt to defeat a James less team but it won't be an easy task, they are looking to get their first three points after not being able to get past the goalless draw against Costa Rica in game 1: "If I analyse the game, the team that should've had the three points was us," he said. "We lost two points - that's how I feel."
Predicted lineups:
Colombia predicted Line-up (4-2-3-1): Ospina; Diaz, Murillo, Zapata, Arias; Torres, Perez; Moreno, Cardona, Cuadrado – Bacca.
Paraguay predicted Line-up (4-4-2): Villar; Samudio, Da Silva, Gomez, Valdez; Romero, Piris, Ortiz, Gonzalez; Benitez, Lezcano.
Photo credit: Seleccion Colombia