Colombia face Portugal with Group K top spot at stake

Portugal on Saturday, the group on the line

Colombia face Portugal on Saturday in the final Group K match at Hard Rock Stadium (1) (2). Top of the group is at stake. A draw or better and you go through as group winners. The 3–1 opener against Uzbekistan put Lorenzo's side in exactly the position they wanted, now it is about finishing the job.

Luis Diaz found his rhythm at the right time

Diaz was unplayable against Uzbekistan. The Portuguese back line will be a different test, but your winger looks sharp and confident. When Diaz runs at defenders with that directness, Colombia are hard to contain. Expect Portugal to double up on him early.

James controls the tempo, and that is the plan

Lorenzo has built this team to let James Rodriguez dictate from midfield. Against Portugal, that role becomes even more important, if James finds space between the lines, Colombia can hurt them. Daniel Munoz's runs from right-back give the attack an extra dimension (2).

Group K standings make the stakes simple

Win the group and avoid a likely group winner in the round of 16. That is the prize. Colombia have scored three goals and conceded just one so far, and the defensive structure looks solid. Lorenzo has emphasized balance, passion with concentration, and it has worked.