Abel Aguilar

Abel Aguilar is a talented Colombian footballer who plays for Deportivo Cali and Colombia national football team in defensive positions. Mostly playing a midfield role, Aguilar is equally competent center back as well.

Aguilar is credited to marshall the defense of Colombia following the retirement of national grets like Ivan Cordoba and Mario Yepes and be a calming influence in adjusting to the tough physical South American style of football.

Background

Aguilar was born on 6 January, 1985 in the capital city of Bogota.

Debut

Aguilar burst into the international scene with an inspired performance at the 2004 Copa America. He made his debut in the group stage victory against Venezuela in Lima. He scored his first goal against the hosts Peru in an intriguing 2-2 draw.

He opened the scoring in a comprehensive 2-0 victory against Costa Rica in the quarters. Colombia ended up losing the bronze medal match to Uruguay and finished 4th.

Rise to glory

Aguilar was one of the unsung heroes of Colombia’s amazing run in the 2014 World Cup. Colombian backline was sturdy throughout the tournament and Aguilar was a key player to keep it tight in the midfield. He bagged two assists in the tournament with a very distinguishing aggressive play. He was an unused substitute in Colombia’s valiant but ultimately futile resistance to Brazil as they bowed out 2-1 in the quarters.