Two nations chasing World Cup glory will do battle today in a match between Colombia and Ivory Coast. The 2014 World Cup group-stage match scheduled for 12 p.m. ET will be held at the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia and can be live streamed here free. A free Spanish language stream of the match can be found here. Free radio coverage here. Additional TV coverage can be found on ESPN, Univision and ESPN Deportes.
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After enjoying the greatest ambiance of the 2014 World Cup, Colombia returns to the pitch on Thursday in hopes of advancing to the Round of 16. Ironically enough, it's been 16 years since the nation last participated in the tournament. Colombia, however, isn't ready to look past any opponent. Especially today's.
"They have a wealth of experience and world-class players such as [Didier] Drogba, Yaya Toure and Gervinho, to name but a few," head coach Jose Pekerman said about Ivory Coast (via FIFA). "They are star names and key players for their clubs and give the team that extra edge. We know we have to show them a lot of respect because they're a great side."
Colombia midfielder Juan Guillermo Cuadrado added: "In my view, they are one of the forces to be reckoned with at this World Cup."
Will Colombia be able to handle the talented roster Ivory Coast possess? Tell us @SportsWN
Tactical Preview
Player to Watch: Ivory Coast's Wilfried Bony—along with Didier Drogba—helped spark the comeback against Japan. The 25-year-old equalized the affair in the second half, proving every bit his worth at the club level. In 34 appearances with Swansea City, Bony contributed 16 goals and four assists. He'll look for more of the same against Colombia on Thursday.
Colombia's Projected Lineup (4-2-3-1): Ospina; Armero, Yepes, Zapata, Zuñiga; Sanchez, Aguilar; Ibarbo, James, Cuadrado; Teófilo
Ivory Coasts' Projected Lineup (4-3-3): Barry; Boka, Bamba, Zokora, Aurier; Tiote, Toure, Die; Gervinho, Bony, Kalou
Note: Credit all statistics to officially licensed data from Opta Sports (via WhoScored).
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