World Cup 2014: Côte d'Ivoire lose 2-1 to Colombia

Gervinho beat three Colombian defenders before firing into the net in brilliant solo effort. The Elephants still stand a chance of progressing to the round of 16 (Photo taken from BBC Swahili)

Côte d'Ivoire  could not repeat a stunning come-back as they did against Japan when the Elephants narrowly lose 2-1 to group C opponents Colombia Thursday.

Two second half goals from James Rodrigez  63rd and Juan Quintero 69th were enough to move Colombia closer to within qualification to the knock-out round of 16.

Striker Gervinho pulled one back in the 73rd minute but it was only enough for a consolation. The former Arsenal star was brilliant with a solo effort - beating three defenders before firing into the net.

Colombia celebrates (Photo taken from Standard Digital Media)

The fiercely contest clash at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia saw the Elephants coming close to a comeback after putting too much pressure on the South Americans when trailing.

Colombia won had won their opening game 3-0 over European side, Greece. 

The West Africans side, which came from behind to win 2-1 against Japan on June 14, still had a chance of qualifying provided they win their final group match against Greece.

Die in tears

Several match commentators said he was emotional or showing true love for country during national anthem, but it later turned out that he learned of his father's death.

When the national anthem was being played before kick-off, Côte d'Ivoire midfielder Serey Die broke down in tears. 

Several match commentators and football writers linked his cries to being emotional or patriotism, but it later turned out that he learned of his father's death.  

Côte d'Ivoire's final group fixture is against Greece at the Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on June 24. Colombia takes on Japan same day same time at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba.

 

Written by Modou S. Joof

• NOTE: This summary World Cup coverage is brought to you by TNBES and it's Official Social Media Pages 

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