World Cup

Colombia qualify following Chile thriller

By Liam Power, Reporter | 12 October 2013

Colombia come from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Chile in tonight's World Cup qualifier, with two late Radamel Falcao penalties enough to secure a trip to Brazil.

Colombia have become the third South American team to confirm their place in next summer's World Cup finals tonight in dramatic fashion, following a 3-3 draw with Chile in Barranquilla.

Jose Pekerman's side went into the qualifier needing just a point to guarantee their place in Brazil next year, but found themselves 3-0 down inside 30 minutes after a blistering start by Chile.

Arturo Vidal put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot early on, before Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez scored twice in seven minutes to put Chile in complete control.

Colombia struggled to break down a stubborn Chile defence but were handed a lifeline in the 66th minute, when the visitors were reduced to 10 men following Carlos Carmona's red card for handball.

The hosts soon took advantage as Teofilo Gutierrez reduced the deficit, before James Rodriguez won a penalty kick which Radamel Falcao duly dispatched.

Six minutes from time Colombia were awarded a second spot kick as Rodriguez was fouled again inside the area, with Falcao making no mistake to book Colombia's short trip to Brazil next summer.