BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil – Overcoming solidly defensive teams like Greece has never been the forte of South American sides, which thrive on attractive football.
Consequently, Colombia coach Jose Pekerman sees the main challenge for his players in their World Cup opener Saturday as respecting the way Greece plays.
Colombia boasts a strong attacking lineup despite Radamel Falcao's exclusion. While Pekerman doesn't want to sacrifice Colombia's aesthetic style, he wants his team to play with equilibrium. He also hopes his players won't get frustrated at Greece's tactics.
Pekerman says "traditionally, South American teams have a hard time against these types of opponents, because they're very solid, they play with a lot of determination and a conviction."
Colombia later trained at Mineirao Stadium in Belo Horizonte, which will host the Group C opener.
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