Colombia advance to 2023 Women's World Cup quarter-finals with 1-0 win over Jamaica, aiming for England

Posted : 08 August 2023

Colombia secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Women's World Cup, setting up a clash with England, after a 1-0 victory over Jamaica. The lone goal was netted by Catalina Usme, ending Jamaica's previously untarnished clean sheet record with a skillful curling strike. Colombia is now aiming to replicate their surprising triumph over Germany in the group stage opener as they face off against Sarina Wiegman's European champions in the next round.

Throughout the match, Colombia displayed a more threatening presence, particularly from set-pieces where Leicy Santos provided quality deliveries. Santos forced two saves from Jamaica's Rebecca Spencer, who had maintained a clean sheet in all of Jamaica's group stage matches. Bunny Shaw, though she missed a headed attempt from a corner, struggled to make an impact in open play as Colombia's defenders effectively neutralized her.

The intensity of the game increased in the second half, and Colombia reaped the rewards in the 51st minute. Ana Guzman, making her debut for the Colombia senior team at just 18 years old, executed an exceptional cross-field pass from left to right, finding Usme. With a deft touch to evade Jamaica's Deneisha Blackwood, Usme curled the ball into the corner, securing the crucial lead.

While Jamaica had opportunities to equalize, their set-piece deliveries often lacked accuracy, and their desperation grew as time dwindled. Ultimately, Jamaica exits the World Cup with only one goal scored and one conceded in their four matches.

Colombia demonstrated remarkable patience against Jamaica, facing a team that had not conceded a goal in the group stage despite facing strong opponents like France and Brazil. Although Colombia struggled to create clear chances in the first half, they remained composed. In the second half, they identified Jamaica's vulnerability on the flanks and capitalized on it with swift switches of play. The goal prompted Jamaica to adopt a more aggressive approach, playing into Colombia's strategy.

Colombia's defense effectively neutralized the threat posed by Bunny Shaw, Jamaica's standout player. Usme, aside from her winning goal, showcased exceptional leadership by controlling the tempo in the final minutes and guiding her teammates to secure the lead.

Special recognition is due to Ana Guzman for her valuable contribution. Stepping in for the absent Manuela Vanegas, Guzman not only provided the crucial assist but also demonstrated strong defensive prowess, thwarting Jamaica's attacks from the right side. In response, the Reggae Girlz shifted their focus to the opposite flank to avoid Guzman's challenge.

Colombia advance to 2023 Women's World Cup quarter-finals with 1-0 win over Jamaica, aiming for England

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