Colombia and Chile will face off in a key match in the World Cup 2014 qualifiers.
Los Cafeteros are just one point shy of booking their first qualification for the tournament since 1998. The country had a chance to clinch the spot in Uruguay last month but wound up losing 2-0 in the waning minutes of the meeting. Colombia currently sits second in the CONMEBOL standings with 26 points. Colombia does not even need to win this match as a loss to one of the teams in the match between Ecuador and Uruguay would clinch a top-four spot for Colombia. In order for Colombia to wind up in the playoff spot, it would need to lose its final two games against Chile and Peru. Uruguay and Ecuador would also need to draw in their game and both clubs would need to win their final games as well; Uruguay hosts first-place Argentina while Chile will host Ecuador.
Chile is also in a prime position to qualify as a win in Colombia would help it book passage for the tournament next summer. With 24 points, Chile could also wind up in the playoff spot if the cards fall the wrong way for the team. If Chile loses to Colombia, and Uruguay or Ecuador win, the team would be in fourth place with a match against Ecuador pending next Tuesday. If Uruguay and Colombia win, then the final contest for Chile would determine whether it remains in the top four or must head to Jordan for a two-legged playoff.
Prediction: Colombia manages a 1-1 draw and qualifies.
Start Time: 5 p.m. EST
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