Nestor Lorenzo, the coach of Colombia, has praised James Rodriguez for his performance in the 2024 Copa America tournament. Rodriguez, who plays for Sao Paulo in Brazil, has been instrumental in Colombia’s success, creating numerous chances for his teammates and providing crucial assists. Despite not being a regular in the national team in recent years, Rodriguez’s technical ability has shone through in the tournament.
Lorenzo has utilized Rodriguez in a flexible role in a 4-3-1-2 system, allowing him to dictate play behind the strikers. Rodriguez’s ability to drop deep and collect the ball from the center-backs has been key against teams that close down space in midfield. His delivery from set pieces has been exceptional, with seven of his 11 chances created coming from dead-ball situations.
In addition to his playmaking abilities, Rodriguez has also shown his prowess in scoring goals. He came close to scoring with a free kick against Brazil and forced their goalkeeper into making a save with a powerful shot from a crossing position. Despite approaching his 33rd birthday, Rodriguez’s work rate and intensity on the field have not diminished.
Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes highlighted the need to keep a close eye on Rodriguez during matches, acknowledging his influence on the game. Colombia’s unbeaten streak of 26 games is a testament to the team’s strong performance, with Rodriguez being a key player in their success.
As Colombia prepares to face Panama in the quarter-finals, Rodriguez’s form will be crucial in their quest for glory in the tournament. His experience and skill on the field have been pivotal in Colombia’s impressive campaign, showcasing his talent to the world once again.