Colombia play out dull Peru draw, to face Argentina in quarters

Colombia played out an uninspired and disappointing goalless draw against Peru but qualified for the quarter-finals after other results went their way.

Ricardo Gareca’s side claimed the point they need to ensure their place in the final eight of the competition; while Jose Pekerman’s progressed after Brazil beat Venezuela 2-1.

Colombia started the match well, putting Peru under intense pressure for the opening 15 minutes of the contest. But they failed to take their chances in front of goal, and struggled for a final ball in the attacking third for the rest of the game.

7’ FALCAO CHANCE: Great save from Gallese to deny Falcao! The ball fell at the feet of the Monaco striker, who turned and fired a low shot towards the target. But the Venezuelan keeper turned it round the post.

60’ FALCAO SHOULD HAVE DONE BETTER! Some lovely play from James to set up Arias for the cross on the left wing. Falcao gets highest to meet the cross but heads his effort over the target.

69’ ANOTHER STOP: Good save from Gallese! Martinez spreads the ball out to James down the right side, with the Real Madrid man forcing the stop. Then Ibarbo has his rebound effort blocked by a challenge.

92’ HE SHOULD HAVE TESTED THE KEEPER! James finds the run of Martinez in behind the Peru backline, but the Porto striker doesn't strike it cleanly and Gallese makes the simple save.

Should Radamel Falcao be dropped? Pekerman has shown great faith in the struggling striker at this year’s Copa America, not just handing him a starting place in the lineup but also the captain’s armband. But Falcao has done little to repay back that faith. Colombia were noticeably better when Jackson Martinez came on in the second half. Falcao must be at threat of being dropped.

Joel Sanchez (Peru): It was tough going to pick out a standout performer from this match. Both teams struggled to create much throughout the game, but Sanchez was probably the best of the players in white and red. He started the second half really well, and forced a couple of good saves from Ospina with a duo of decent efforts on target. That was about as good as it got, though.

Colombia: Opsina 6, Arias 6, Zapata 5, Murillo 5, Armero 6, Sanchez 6, Valencia 5, Cuadrado 6, James 6, Teo 5, Falcao 5. Subs: Mejia 6, Martinez 7, Ibarbo 5.

Peru: Galles 7, Advincula 6, Zambrano 6, Ascues 6, Vargas 5, Lobaton 7, Ballon 6, Sanchez 7, Cueva 6, Pizarro 5, Guerrero 6. Subs: Farfan 5, Hurtado, Yotun.