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GLENDALE, Arizona: After Colombia’s 5-0 win over Panama in the Copa America quarterfinals, coach Nestor Lorenzo said Colombia’s strong team spirit was a key factor in the South American side’s stellar 27-match unbeaten run.
Colombia’s last defeat was a 0-1 loss to Argentina in February 2022. Colombia made it through the group stage with two wins and one draw in this tournament, and then defeated Panama on Saturday in Glendale, Arizona, booking a spot in the semi-finals.
The win boosted Colombia’s morale ahead of a tough semi-final against Uruguay or Brazil, with several of the team’s fringe players also getting some playing time as Lorenzo made five substitutions in the quarter-final.
“Each of these 11 players has to fight for their teammates, for the other 10 players and that’s what this team showed. They had a great attitude and gave everything for their teammates,” Lorenzo told reporters.
“It was clear from the first minute. I think the leadership should have handled it that way, the coaching staff thought the same way. Thank God it was a very balanced team in that sense. They all competed for places in a very healthy way.
“I’m very happy to be able to come off the bench. I’ve been waiting for this moment because it’s very important for a coach to get players on the field at the right time for their success, so we have to be careful when we make those decisions.”
Asked which team he would prefer to face between Brazil and Uruguay, who play later on Saturday, Lorenzo said: “We can’t choose our opponents. That wouldn’t be appropriate.”
“I think there are two great teams, two champions, either of them would be a candidate for the title, so I’m not going to choose.
“We have played against both teams and today we will play against the team that wins.”
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