Colombia vs. Ecuador World Cup 2014 Qualifiers: Video Highlights, Recap

Colombia defeated Ecuador 1-0 in a tense World Cup Qualifier on Friday. 

After over an hour of delay, the home team got off and running. Ecuador spent most of the first half chasing the ball, but had the best opportunity in the opening when Jefferson Montero fired a shot from outside the box. Colombia’s David Ospina made a terrific diving stop to keep the ball out and preserve the score at 0-0. The Colombians continued to dominate possession and got a huge break at the 28th minute when Teofilio Gutierrez broke away from the Ecuadorian defense. Defender Gabriel Achilier took the forward down and was punished with a red card. With the man advantage, the Colombians took advantage of their space and scored at the 31st minute. Los Cafeteros built up the play down the middle of the field. The ball eventually reached Radamel Falcao outside the box; the Monaco striker fired it at the goal, but saw his shot redirected. Ecuadorian keeper Maximo Banguera made a diving stop, but his clearing attempt went right to James Rodriguez who fired it into the far side of the goal to give Colombia a 1-0 lead. Colombia created more chances near the end of the half, but was unable to add to its lead after the first 45 minutes.

Like the first half, the second half was delayed by problems with the stadium lights. The Colombians continued where they left off, but near the 50^th minute mark, goalie David Ospina was accidently hit by an Ecuadorian attacker. The netminder lay still on the pitch for a lengthy period of time, but eventually got to his feet and continued to play. Colombia created a couple of great opportunities, but Ecuador received a penalty shot when Antonio Valencia was pulled down in the box. However, Walter Ayovi missed the shot despite getting Ospina to commit to the wrong side. Minutes later, Gutierrez hit the post with an empty net glaring at him.

Colombia now has 26 points in the CONMEBOL standings while Ecuador ends the day with 21 points.