FIFA World Cup 1st Knockout Round Preview

Colombia vs England

England will be hoping that Harry Kane's fine form continues against Colombia

Colombia have had to qualify for the World Cup knockout rounds the hard way, from a group that they were the favorites in. Colombia were reduced to 10 men in their opening game against Japan following the sending off of Carlos Sanchez Moreno and Japan went on to win the game, leaving Colombian hopes dangling by a thread.

However Colombia bounced back to trounce Poland 3-0 and then secured a win over Senegal in a near must win fixture to not only book their spot in the knockout rounds but also win the group.

Yerry Milna has been a lethal ariel presence for Colombia and the defender has scored in both of Colombia's win so far, including the crucial winner against Senegal that sealed their spot in the knockouts.

Colombia's star midfielder James Rodriguez has also proven to be in fine form and jointly leads the assists chart at the World Cup. Then there is Colombia's proven striker Falcao who keeps the defenders on their toes during the whole game and possesses the talent to turn even half chances into goals.

England started a little shakily and required an injury time winner to seal the points against Tunisia, but a thumping 6-1 win over Panama sent expectations through the roof for the English fans and a real sense of belief developed about their chances at the World Cup.

However all that was brought to a crashing halt by Belgium who weren't even at full strength. Of course neither were England at full strength, but that defeat has dampened the mood in the English camp, atleast a little.

Striker Harry Kane has been the star for England and leads the race for the Golden Boot with 5 goals in the group matches. It is important to point out that Harry Kane didn't start in England's defeat to Belgium.

Result - England, especially with Harry Kane in the line up, seem to be a very potent team. However they don't quite seem to have what it takes to go all the way in the competition. Sooner or later they will face a real contender and bow out. However the team that sends England packing from the World Cup is unlikely to be Colombia. Having said that though there isn't a big difference in quality between the two teams. It could eventually come down to the two strikers Harry Kane and Falcao. This could go into Extra Time and penalties. However England do start as slight favorites.