Argentina: through to QF, but the hard way

It may not carry the socio-political implications of an Argentina-Brazil or Mexico-United States, but the rivalry that has developed between Argentina and Colombia can definitely be qualified as one of the best in this part of the world.

Today's match was a chance for both teams to exact some revenge: it was Alfio Basile's first time facing Colombia since Los Cafeteros dropped 5 on his squad in Buenos Aires during World Cup qualifying for USA 1994. For Colombia, it was a chance to show that, even if Argentina had showed up at Copa America 2001 (Argentina pulled out at the last minute due to security concerns), they still would have won. On top of that, Colombia needed to win to stay alive in this tournament, and Argentina needed a victory to assure themselves of classifying for the quarters.

The match itself was a cracking affair, with Colombia not at all shy to get stuck in. The kicking did little to dissuade Argentina, however, and Riquelme seemed to thrive in the violent, slow pace that the constant fouling created. Colombia was definitely up for the match, though, and how different things could have been if Arizala's shot from long range had gone in with three minutes left to play.

Losing Crespo will hurt, especially if he's out for the rest of the tournament. Diego Milito is certainly a fine striker, but Crespo has shown time and again that he can perform at the highest level, and that's always useful when you get to knock-out stages.

Argentina is looking very vulnerable - they were lucky to win this game, and the 4-2 scoreline does no justice to just how hard Colombia pushed el albiceleste. Nevertheless, with 2 defeats from 2, and 9 goals against, Colombia is almost certainly out.

With two rounds of games played, it is looking like the two third-placed teams will come from groups A and B, with everything to play for in Group A, Mexico already through in Group B, and both Paraguay and Argentina already through in Group C.