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James Rodriguez justified the captain’s armband he wore on Friday night by turning in a stellar performance to guide Colombia from a goal down to post a 2-1 victory over Jurgen Klinsmann’s USA in an international friendly. He provided a superbly-weighted assist for Carlos Bacca’s equalizing goal on the hour mark, paving the way for the eventual comeback.
Every touch the left-footed genius made was cheered wildly by the Craven Cottage crowd, re-affirming his status as a newfound national icon. His young shoulders look capable enough of carrying the hopes and expectations of a whole country, if Friday night was anything to go by.
Colombia national team coach Jose Pekerman lauded the attitude of his young captain.
“James Rodriguez has shown in recent times a high level of maturity for a 23-year-old, which is excellent. He has assumed all the extra responsibilities he has had as captain in this game and the levels of expectation on him since the World Cup.
He is always growing and today as captain, he knew how to manage the team. I think it was because of him that we recovered in the second half. James was showing the way in the game to other players and showing the will required for us to win this match."
Here is the equalizing goal that came about from James Rodriguez’s pass.
Falcao will break a lot of records in England: Pekerman
On being asked about the status of Radamel Falcao, Pekerman talked down possibilities of a long-term layoff for the other star footballer in Colombian ranks.
“This is a small muscular injury, it is different to the knee injury before the World Cup. He's in a good condition and could be ready for Arsenal. He will be one of the best players Manchester United have had and will break a lot of records in England.
Playing in England is clearly a new experience for him - but everywhere he has been he has adapted and excelled, achieved great things.”
The striker has scored once in the English Premier League as of yet, and will be raring to come back and rescue Manchester United’s flailing fortunes.
James Rodriguez more comfortable playing for Colombia than for Real Madrid
The man of the moment for Colombia has revealed that he prefers to play in the more attacking role he is deployed in for his nation, and that he is played out of his favourite position for the Spanish giants Real Madrid.
"It's true I play a little deeper for Real Madrid. I can push a little further forward for Colombia. I hope to play where I feel most comfortable and help the team to win. I feel more comfortable where I play for Colombia because I like to be closer to the goal; that works better for me. I can score and pass from there.
But as a player I have to be prepared to play in any position."
