The two winners in the opening matches in Group C face each other in what is likely to decide who finishes top of the group.
Colombia opened their tournament with a comfortable 3-0 victory against Greece, but the South American side now face a different prospect and threat in their next match. Cote d'Ivoire, on the other hand, came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in a match they dominated.
James Rodriguez was at the centre of everything good going forward for Colombia in their first match, with intelligent play both out wide and in the centre, opening up the Greek defence including his dummy that led to the first goal.
With the preferred attacking attitude so far at this World Cup, defences have been exposed on regular occasions and Rodriguez’s dribbling can be used to full effect — the Monaco player completed three out of his five dribbles against Greece, one of which led to his goal in the final minute.
This is especially true with their match against the Ivorians, whose ventures high up the pitch make them open to fast and direct counter attacks, and Rodriguez could provide the match-winning moment.
A change in fortunes for Cote d'Ivoire occurred after the introduction of Didier Drogba and only two minutes after he came on they equalised. The former Chelsea player didn’t play a role in the goal, but the presence and lift that Drogba provided his team — including an extra body in the box for Japan to worry about — proved pivotal for the Ivorians.
Whether Drogba’s performance sees him obtain a starting position against Colombia or a similar role off the bench, the talismanic striker will continue to be key to his country’s chances.
