Colombia Flag

Colombia claimed their first three points in the 2024 Olympics with a decisive 2-0 victory against New Zealand in Lyon. This win is crucial for Las Cafeteras as they aim to advance from the group stage.

First half: Colombia takes the lead

Both teams entered the match eager for a win after disappointing results in their opening fixtures. Colombia made strategic changes, with Ilana Izquierdo and Manuela Pavi stepping into the starting lineup. New Zealand also adjusted, bringing in Jacqui Hand.

Colombia started aggressively, putting early pressure on New Zealand. Katie Bowen made a notable block against a shot from Linda Caicedo.

Despite New Zealand’s attempts to build play, Colombia’s persistence paid off in the 27th minute. A poorly cleared free kick fell to Marcela Restrepo, who struck a stunning half-volley past Anna Leat, putting Colombia ahead.

New Zealand grew into the game, with Stott and Clegg having moments in the box, but they failed to convert. Just before halftime, Caicedo forced Leat into a near-post save, and Vanegas hit the crossbar in injury time, keeping Colombia’s lead at 1-0.

Second half: Sealing the victory

New Zealand made attacking changes at halftime, bringing on Jale and Longo. Despite these adjustments, Colombia continued to dominate. Usme’s free kick was pushed onto the crossbar by Leat, and Stott cleared a Pavi shot off the line.

Colombia’s second goal came from excellent team coordination. After Izquierdo hit the woodwork, Vanegas collected the rebound and set up Santos, who finished smoothly to secure the 2-0 lead.

The match’s final minutes saw New Zealand making further substitutions, but Colombia’s defence held firm. Stott’s late long-range attempt went wide, and Bowen made a crucial tackle to prevent Santos from scoring a third.

Colombia’s solid performance earned them three points and bolstered their chances of advancing to the quarter-finals. They will face Canada next, while New Zealand, still without points, must win against France to progress.

Starting XIs

Colombia: Tapia; C. Arias, D. Arias, Carabali, Vanegas, Izquierdo, Usme, Restrepo, Santos, Caicedo, Pavi.

New Zealand: Leat; Bott, Bowen, Stott, Barry, Riley, Taylor, Steinmetz, Kitching, Clegg, Hand


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For more of our Paris 2024 Women’s Football Olympic coverage click here.

By Emilie Mwanza

Founder of Beyond The 90. Trainee multimedia journalist based in Preston.