The end of Colombia came almost anticlimactically in extra time after 90 minutes of spectacular shots which had both goalies jack knifing through the air, a missed penalty by Radamel Falcao, and two reprieves for Peru as the ball blasting Dayro Moreno and Fredy Guarin threatened to end the match. But Peru survived it all and in turn tested Luis Martinez with Luis Vargas and Adan Balbin coming close.
Peru administered a shock in the 102nd minute when Luis Martinez coming yards out to collect a free kick spilled it straight into the path of Carlos Lobaton. The midfielder taking a few steps blasted the half volley straight into the back of the net with Martinez sprawled out helpless on the pitch. At the other end Raul Fernandez had to endure another long distance thunderbolt from Fredy Guarin and after the teams crossed over Moreno had another go. It was Martinez at fault again with a rather casual return kick which Guerrero intercepted and racing ahead found Vargas who smashed the ball home.
Los Cafateros looking so good in the group stage were unable to finish their chances. Dayro Moreno and Fredy Guarin were the cream with their long range efforts. Guarin in particular weaved a mesmerizing mazy run down the left but his shot was saved by the excellent Fernandez. Peru make their first semi-final entry since the 1997 Copa.
Leave a comment