Mum's Still the Word for Colombia Coach Lorenzo Ahead of Ghana Clash

As Colombia prepares for a crucial World Cup match against Ghana, coach Néstor Lorenzo revealed a unique source of consistent advice: his 89-year-old mother. Lorenzo shared that her guidance remains unchanged before every significant challenge, drawing a parallel to his own coaching methods.

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The advice from a mother is always the same. Mothers never get tired of repeating it.

"The advice from a mother is always the same. Mothers never get tired of repeating it," Lorenzo told reporters. He likened this to how his players anticipate his feedback after matches, knowing the specific details he will focus on. "It's a bit like what happens with us and the players. The players already know me, when they see a goal, they say, 'Oh, if the coach saw that...' because we're always working on the same details."

Lorenzo's mother, though not providing specific tactical instructions for the Ghana game, remains an attentive and loving follower of his career. The 60-year-old Argentine manager acknowledged her unwavering support, stating, "My mother is the same. She hasn't given me any specific instructions for this match, but she is always attentive and following it with love."

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It's a bit like what happens with us and the players. The players already know me, when they see a goal, they say, 'Oh, if the coach saw that...' because we're always working on the same details.

Looking ahead to the round of 32 clash in Kansas City, Lorenzo characterized Ghana as a disciplined and dangerous opponent. He expressed uncertainty about their tactical approach, speculating whether they might employ a defensive low block or opt for an aggressive attacking strategy. Regardless of Ghana's choice, Lorenzo stressed the need for precision, movement, and long-range shots if Colombia faces a deep defense.

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My mother is the same. She hasn't given me any specific instructions for this match, but she is always attentive and following it with love.

Colombia topped Group K after victories against Uzbekistan and DR Congo, followed by a draw with Portugal. While praising his team's versatility, Lorenzo acknowledged room for improvement. He also commented on the intense competitiveness of the knockout stages, noting the elimination of strong teams like Germany and the Netherlands. "The feeling is that the competition is incredibly even and that it is there for anyone to win," he stated, downplaying suggestions that Colombia might be favorites, emphasizing the need for effectiveness and luck alongside good play.

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I don't know if Ghana will present a low block. Maybe they want to surprise us or come out and attack with everything.