Copa America 2011, Argentina Vs. Colombia: Hosts Disappoint With Another Draw

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Just like the first match of Copa America, Argentina were expected to go in and get three points only to come away with a disappointing draw. The hosts and tournament favorites have looked anything but and now on just two points after two matches they will need to get a win in their final match of the group stage to guarantee advancement. Meanwhile, Colombia have done their job to get a draw and with four points look well on their way to first place in Group A.

While Argentina had the better of play and 17 shots to Colombia's 13, it was the Colombians who had the best chances of the match. The best opportunity came in the first half when Gabriel Milito's dreadful backpass went right to Adrian Ramos who rounded the keeper and had a clear chance at goal, but was taken out by Nicolas Burdisso. The referee did not award the penalty and red card like he could have, instead playing advantage as the ball rolled to Dayro Moreno, who shot wide of the open goal.

Colombia continued to exploit Argentina on the counter-attack and challenged Sergio Romero several times, but each time Romero was up to the challenge as he played a sensational match. He made several good saves to keep Colombia scoreless, but Argentina had their chances too. Neco Ramirez was forced to make good saves on both Carlos Tevez and Ezequiel Lavezzi, but Argentina will still feel as if they were poor.

As was the case in the last match, Lionel Messi was bright from the start and played the role of playmaker well. The problem, once again, was that he had no support. Lavezzi was non-existant again and Tevez worked hard, but didn't make himself available when he needed to then was selfish on the ball when he had it. Most disappointing was Esteban Cambiasso, who continued his awful run of form for Argentina begging the question, where is Javier Pastore?

As much as Argentina will lament their inability to get three points, credit has to go to Colombia who is a good team and got three points. Now sitting atop Group A on four points, they will need a win on July 10 against Bolivia to clinch first place in the group. Meanwhile, Argentina needs to defeat Costa Rica a day later or face the prospect of not even qualifying for the knockout stages.