Colombian forward James Rodriguez says that they will not be feeling any pressure ahead of the World Cup quarter-final match with Brazil. Colombia managed to overcome one Latin American team in the form of Uruguay to reach the quarter-finals of the competition. Their progression in the tournament so far has been hugely helped by the form of James Rodriguez, who at 22 years of age is looking like a star in the making. He has scored five goals and is leading scorer in the tournament, when he has also contributed through assists as well.
Brazil will be providing the toughest test for Colombia so far in this tournament. As the hosts of the World Cup and one of the strongest teams in the world, Brazil will be considered as favourites to win the match. However, the odds have been slightly shifted after the latest round of last 16 matches. Luiz Felipe Scolari’s team struggled to find a way past Chile in the last 16 match. The only narrowly scraped through after a penalty shootout win. The prospect of having to come up against another South American team will be viewed with dissatisfaction amongst the Brazilian players.
Colombia have been a surprise package and Rodriguez feels that they can continue this form going into the quarter-finals as well. “Obviously, we have to watch Brazil closely. They have very good players and they play good football, but they’ll have to watch us closely as well. There’s no pressure, we have good players and we can be dangerous. I think it’s going to be a beautiful match. I only want to help the team. I’m playing at a good level. We’re scoring goals and I’m happy because of that,” said the 22-year-old forward who moved to Monaco last summer. He is valued at more than £ 30 million.