Colombia vs. Venezuela, Brazil vs. Peru Preview, Predictions, TV Info Schedule: Will James Rodriguez Lead Nation to Victory in Opener?
Colombia is set to open its Copa America campaign with what should be a tense encounter with Venezuela. Meanwhile Brazil will look to get things started nice and easy with a win over Peru.
Colombia did not win either of the two games against Venezuela during the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, putting the team in a rather interesting position. Led by James Rodriguez, few would put Colombia under Venezuela in this contest and yet there are concerns given the recent historical record. Colombia has won 22 of 42 matches against Venezuela all-time but in recent years, Los Cafeteros have a record of one win, one draw and three losses since 2009.
That said, this Colombian side is known for a wondrous attacking prowess that will be put under an interesting test. Will Radamel Falcao be the man to lead the line or will it be Carlos Bacca or Teofilo Gutierrez? Where does Jackson Martinez fit into the puzzle? All of the are options for Jose Pekerman and it will be interesting to see which one the coach opts for.
While Colombia gets a tricky date, Brazil opens its campaign against the minnow of the group in Peru.
Dunga's group was flying high until a frustrating 1-0 win over Honduras called into question the team's offensive prowess. Neymar was held ineffective throughout the game, causing concern over whether this team was as invincible as its nine-straight wins have shown.
However, Peru should not be an area for concern as the team has a record of five wins, five losses and one draw since the start of 2014. Wins have come over Panama, Qatar, Iraq, Guatemala and Paraguay, none of these teams that would instill fear in the best of teams.
Predictions: Brazil mops the floor with Peru in a 3-0 thrashing. Look for Neymar to score a goal or two.
Meanwhile, Colombia gets by Venezuela in a solid, if not always pretty, 1-0 win.
Schedule: Both games take place on June 14 and can be watched on beIN Sport.
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