Colombia and Ivory Coast are leading the charge in Group C after both teams won their opening matches. They each lived up to their rankings dominated Greece and Japan respectively making their game on Thursday crucial to moving on from the knockout stages. Statistically, Colombia is the favorite to advance from the group, but Ivory Coast has momentum from their comeback win that could give the South American nation some issues.
Colombia came out on fire, putting up three goals in their lopsided win over Greece. The lineup proved successful as Victor Ibarbo started on the left over Carlos Bacca. Coach Jose Pekerman is expected to make that move permanent against Ivory Coast after Bacca suffered an undisclosed muscle injury during a training session earlier in the week. James Rodriguez also made a strong impression in the opening game. He will be tested by Ivory Coast's midfield game. Do not expect him to be able to move about as freely as he did against Greece. Ivory Coast will be looking to keep in a bit more quiet on the pitch this game.
Columbia comes in as the favorite in the grouping and will be expected to push the pace of the match. They hold the highest possession rate and most touches per game in the World Cup while also having more shots on target than any other South American team in qualifying. They play a high-tempo games, something the Ivory Coast hopes to match.
The Ivory Coast were convincing in their comeback win over Japan, proving they are one of the mentally tougher teams in the tournament. They play with a tremendous amount of power, a trait that should pair well against the speed of Columbia. Coach Sabri Lamouchi must decide where to put Didier Drogba in this match. He was the star of the second half against Japan, putting up two goals the secure the win, but he could be starting off the bench against Ivory Coast. The Elephants average two goals per game which might be enough to at least create a draw against Columbia.
Defense will be the key in the game between Columbia and Ivory Coast. Both teams have struggled with that during qualifying meaning this could be a high-scoring effort. Columbia is hoping their three-goal opening performance is enough to concern the Ivory coast as the team is confident they could win any kind of shootout in this tournament.
