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Team Colombia Advances To Olympic Quarterfinals For The First Time
July 31, 2024 | Soccer, Olympic Games
PARIS, France – For the first time in their history, Colombia's women's soccer team has advanced to the Olympic Quarterfinals, marking a significant milestone for the nation's sporting achievements. Mississippi State standout Ilana Izquierdo played a role in securing history for her country, earning starts in two matches. Izquierdo played 89 minutes in her first career Olympic start against New Zealand. Izquierdo then logged 90 minutes against Canada to round out the group stage.
In their opening match against France, Colombia faced a challenging first half, with the French taking a decisive 3-0 lead. Marie-Antoinette Katoto struck early in the 6th minute, followed by Kenza Dali in the 18th minute, and another goal by Katoto in the 42nd minute.
Colombia attempted to shock the home crowd in the second half with a comeback for the ages. Catalina Usme secured the Colombian's first goal of the Games when she converted a penalty in the 54th minute. Just 10 minutes later, Manuela Pavi narrowed the gap to 3-2. Despite their efforts, Colombia couldn't find the equalizer as the match reached full time.
Scorers:
France: Marie-Antoinette Katoto (6', 42'), Kenza Dali (18')
Colombia: Catalina Usme (54' PEN), Manuela Pavi (64')
Colombia secured a vital victory against New Zealand in their second group match. Marcela Restrepo opened the scoring in the 27th minute, giving Colombia a 1-0 lead at halftime. In the 72nd minute, Leicy Santos doubled the lead, ensuring Colombia's first win in their Olympic history, 2-nil.
Scorers:
Colombia: Marcela Restrepo (27'), Leicy Santos (72')
In their final group stage match, Colombia faced a tough battle against Canada. The first half ended goalless, but Vanessa Gilles broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, giving Canada a 1-nil lead. Colombia pushed for an equalizer but was unable to find the back of the net, resulting in a narrow defeat.
Scorers:
Canada: Vanessa Gilles (61')
Colombia's journey through Group A showcased their determination and resilience through adversity, culminating in a historic progression to the knockout stages. Colombia will now turn their attention to Spain for a spot in the semifinals, continuing their pursuit of Olympic glory.
For the most up-to-date information on the Bulldogs, follow MSU women's soccer on X, like them on Facebook, and join them on Instagram by searching for "HailStateSoc."
Group A Recap for Team Colombia in the Olympics
Match 1: France vs. Colombia
Final Score: France 3 - 2 ColombiaIn their opening match against France, Colombia faced a challenging first half, with the French taking a decisive 3-0 lead. Marie-Antoinette Katoto struck early in the 6th minute, followed by Kenza Dali in the 18th minute, and another goal by Katoto in the 42nd minute.
Colombia attempted to shock the home crowd in the second half with a comeback for the ages. Catalina Usme secured the Colombian's first goal of the Games when she converted a penalty in the 54th minute. Just 10 minutes later, Manuela Pavi narrowed the gap to 3-2. Despite their efforts, Colombia couldn't find the equalizer as the match reached full time.
Scorers:
France: Marie-Antoinette Katoto (6', 42'), Kenza Dali (18')
Colombia: Catalina Usme (54' PEN), Manuela Pavi (64')
Match 8: New Zealand vs. Colombia
Final Score: New Zealand 0 - 2 ColombiaColombia secured a vital victory against New Zealand in their second group match. Marcela Restrepo opened the scoring in the 27th minute, giving Colombia a 1-0 lead at halftime. In the 72nd minute, Leicy Santos doubled the lead, ensuring Colombia's first win in their Olympic history, 2-nil.
Scorers:
Colombia: Marcela Restrepo (27'), Leicy Santos (72')
Match 14: Colombia vs. Canada
Final Score: Colombia 0 - 1 CanadaIn their final group stage match, Colombia faced a tough battle against Canada. The first half ended goalless, but Vanessa Gilles broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, giving Canada a 1-nil lead. Colombia pushed for an equalizer but was unable to find the back of the net, resulting in a narrow defeat.
Scorers:
Canada: Vanessa Gilles (61')
Colombia's journey through Group A showcased their determination and resilience through adversity, culminating in a historic progression to the knockout stages. Colombia will now turn their attention to Spain for a spot in the semifinals, continuing their pursuit of Olympic glory.
For the most up-to-date information on the Bulldogs, follow MSU women's soccer on X, like them on Facebook, and join them on Instagram by searching for "HailStateSoc."
– HailState.com –
Players Mentioned
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