Davinson Sanchez was unable to help Columbia get off to a positive start at the World Cup, after they were condemned to a shock defeat by Japan earlier this afternoon.
The Spurs defender played the full 90 minutes as Yuya Osaka scored the winner with 17 minutes to play to hand Japan the victory, meaning they became the first Asian side to beat South American opposition at a World Cup.
Columbia got off to a nightmare start after they were reduced to ten-men after just three minutes when former Aston Villa midfielder Carlos Sanchez was sent off for handball inside the area.
Referee Damir Skomina had no hesitation in pointing to the spot in the process and former Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa calmly slotted away the penalty to put Japan ahead.
Columbia rallied though and went on in level terms at half time after Juan Quintero’s low free-kick sneaked over the line five minutes before the break.
But Japan wouldn’t be beaten and Osako popped up to head home Keisuke Honda’s corner to secure an historic victory, putting them top of group H.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article