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James Rodríguez aims for history with Colombia in his final World Cup
🇲🇽 Mexico /Sports

James Rodríguez aims for history with Colombia in his final World Cup

From El Universal · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • James Rodríguez started for Colombia in their 3-1 World Cup victory over Uzbekistan, marking his final tournament appearance.
  • He expressed happiness and pride in representing Colombia, emphasizing his commitment to the team's goals.
  • Colombia's next opponent is Portugal, whom Rodríguez noted as a physical and fast team requiring careful attention to detail.

In a vibrant Estadio Ciudad de México, awash in the yellow of the Colombian fans, James Rodríguez began what he knows is his final World Cup adventure. The veteran midfielder felt the weight of emotion, aware that each match in this tournament holds special significance for his career.

The first game is always tough; there are many feelings inside. I live it happily, like the first day, and I always try to help the team achieve its goals. It's an honor to be here.

— James RodríguezReflecting on the opening match and his feelings about playing in his final World Cup.

Rodríguez started and played a role in Colombia's 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan, easing the pressure of being the team's primary reference point. He calmly highlighted the collective effort, stating his commitment to giving his all for Colombia on the world's biggest football stage. "The first game is always tough; there are many feelings inside. I live it happily, like the first day, and I always try to help the team achieve its goals. It's an honor to be here," he shared. "In Mexico, there were many Colombians; I try to give everything for the shirt, and the fans appreciate that."

In Mexico, there were many Colombians; I try to give everything for the shirt, and the fans appreciate that.

— James RodríguezCommenting on the strong fan support in Mexico City.

He revealed watching parts of the match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia's next group stage opponent. Rodríguez acknowledged the African team's strengths, describing them as physical and fast. He stressed the importance of maintaining concentration and guarding against giving away space. "I was able to watch Congo for 25 minutes against Portugal, and I think they are a physical and fast team. We have to be careful on the transitions and not give them space; it will be a game we have to work for," he said. "I have felt comfortable on the field, and I hope to continue that way."

I was able to watch Congo for 25 minutes against Portugal, and I think they are a physical and fast team. We have to be careful on the transitions and not give them space; it will be a game we have to work for.

— James RodríguezAnalyzing Colombia's next opponent, the Democratic Republic of Congo.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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