In the final group B game of the Rio 2016 soccer competition, Colombia defeated Nigeria 2-0 at the Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo on Wednesday.
Having won their first two games against Japan and Sweden, Nigeria’s Dream team VI took their foot off the medal as they made five changes to their starting line up.
Samson Siasia rested goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel for Daniel Akpeyi as Kingsley Madu, Saliu Popoola, Aminu Umar and Ndifreke Udo got their first starts in the competition.
The Nigeria midfield struggled in the match as clear cut chances were few and far between. Team captain, Obi Mikel, had a forgettable game and eventually the Colombians drew the first blood.
Colombian captain Teofilo Gutierrez scored the opening goal from a pass from Diego Pabon.
Oghenekaro Etebo had Nigeria’s best chance in the second half but poor finishing denied Nigeria an equaliser.
The Colombians defended resolutely as the Nigerians failed to really threaten and eventually they cemented their position when Akpeyi brought down Harold Preciado in the box.
Pabon cooly converted the resulting penalty kick to ensure that Colombia’s qualification for the Quarter Finals.
