Carlos Sanchez was shown the second-fastest red card in World Cup history as Colombia slipped to a 2-1 defeat against Japan. The Group H favourites suffered a nightmarish start to their campaign.
Colombia got off to a nightmare start when Carlos Sanchez was sent off after less than three minutes.
Sanchez blocked Shinji Kagawa’s shot with his arm after just two minutes and 56 seconds. The referee had no hesitation to point to the spot and give the red card. This is the first straight red card for handball at a World Cup since Luis Suarez was sent off against Ghana in 2010.
Kagawa then put Japan ahead from the penalty spot. But even with 10 men, Pekerman’s side was competitive and Juan Quintero levelled with a free-kick six minutes before half-time.
Pekerman brought on 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez in the second half. Some report suggest that he didn’t start due to calf injury. And, due to the injury he could’t make a mark after he came in the second half.
Akira Nishino’s men came into the tournament as one of the lowest ranked teams. But they defied their position by making good use of their man advantage and fully deserved to have their lead restored. At the 73rd minute of the match, FC Koln forward Yuya Osako headed the winner in the 73rd minute.
Victory over Colombia will give Japan hope of progressing beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010. While, Pekerman will hope that James can return to full fitness in time for their forthcoming clash with Poland.
The game was less than three minutes old when Sanchez blocked Kagawa’s 20-yard shot with his arm and the referee pointed to the penalty spot before showing the midfielder a straight red card.
Japan have become the first Asian side to defeat South American opposition at the World Cup. After this shock defeat, Colombia have to be at their very best against Poland and Senegal.