FIFA World Cup: 3 things Colombia did wrong in 2-1 loss to Japan

#3 Failing to capitalise on the gathered momentum

Colombia couldn't make much of their dominance

For a good 40 minutes or so in the first half, Colombia looked to be in control despite the numerical disadvantage. It was as if the red card lit up a fire in their belly and they're trying to make a statement of intent. Chances flew thick and fast during that spell, but profligacy cost them.

Falcao, in particular, was at the receiving end of three or four good chances, but was either uncharacteristically poor in his first touch or shot straight at the keeper. Cuadrado and Izquierdo provided with the pace on the flanks, but their final ball disappointed. There were also moments when they did well to get near the area, but some close man-marking by the Japanese defenders squelched any attacking intent.

In an utterly lifeless display after the break, Colombia had one golden chance to get back on level terms, but even that was excellently dealt with as Rodriguez's effort was sent flying over the bar. Just a minute later, a miscommunication between him and Bacca saw another chance went begging, and that was the final nail in the coffin.