BOGOTA, Colombia — It was earlier than dawn in Colombia when the celebrations started.
Catalina Usme’s aim on the Women’s World Cup in Melbourne – 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) away – helped Colombia beat Jamaica 1-0 on Tuesday and advance to the quarterfinals for the primary time.
“The dawn was worth it, we did not fail them,” stated Linda Caicedo, Colombia’s 18-year-old sensation. “We made history today, but this is step by step.”
Colombia strikes to Sydney for a knockout match Saturday towards European champion England, which superior on penalties after a scoreless draw with Nigeria on Monday.
The 33-year-old Usme scored the one aim of the match in type. She managed a middle cross by Ana María Guzmán and took a strong shot along with her left foot to place Colombia a step away from the semifinals.
“I have a lot of confidence in the penalty box, I am cold-blooded there,” Usme stated. “This goal is for God, who makes me brave, and for my family who cried and dreamed with me.”
Usme spoke to her mother and father within the metropolis of Jamundi due to native tv RCN.
“I am the most proud mommy. I am always supporting her and sending her good energies,” Luz María Pineda stated in a home that was become a type of soccer museum along with her daughter’s awards and footage.
Colombia’s victory resonated with many celebrities within the South American nation, together with Radamel Falcao, the highest aim scorer for the boys’s nationwide group.
“They are writing their own history. Congratulations, Colombia is with you,” Falcao stated on his social media channels.
Singer Maluma additionally celebrated in Colombia’s soccer federation social media accounts: “Vaaaamooooosss,” he stated.
Colombia’s sports ministry hailed “the feelings, the character and the bravery” of the Colombian group in “making the country’s name shine with women’s sport and a story that is writing itself.”
Las Cafeteras, making their third World Cup look, had additionally reached the spherical of 16 in 2015 however have been stopped in a 2-0 loss to the United States.
Now, they’re solely group from the Americas nonetheless in rivalry.
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