Given that Colombia is already regarded as one of this Copa America's title contenders, they face this Peruvian national team filled with confidence that they can get their ticket to the semifinals. Ricardo Gareca's team on the other hand, arrived to this stage of the tournament with an illegal hand ball goal and shouldn't be able to get further down the tournament. Both sides analyzed the game before it takes place this Friday. On one side, Aston Villa player Carlos Sanchez, spoke to the press this Thursday.
He said: "Our physical aspect is fundamental, but a lot of games are usually won by the mental aspect. I think the team that prepares better mentally for this game will make the difference. In today's age, everything is a lot more equal and the games are won by little things. While we will try to get the best out of us physically, games are hotly contested and you have to work more on what is the mental aspect. Peru have demonstrated an important power, and it is a team that is always getting better."
Peruvian midfielder Renato Tapia, revealed that his side is confident and staying positive ahead of the match: "We are strong, and united. The win [over Brazil] has helped us, but we must now turn the page. To win is always nice, and it motivates you to go phase by phase, but now we must fully focus on Colombia. They are a strong team. We've played them in the past and we must be wary of what they are capable of."
Possible lineups:
Peru starting lineup (4-2-3-1 formation): Gallese; Corzo, Ramos, Rodriguez, Trauco; Vilchez, Balbin; Polo, Cueva, Flores; Guerrero.
Colombia starting lineup (4-2-3-1 formation): Ospina; Arias, Zapata, Murillo, Diaz; Perez, Torres; Cuadrado, Rodriguez, Cardona; Bacca.
Photo credit: Seleccion Colombia