Duvan Zapata of Colombia celebrates his goal during the match between Colombia and Qatar at the Copa America 2019 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, June 19, 2019. Colombia won 1-0. (Xinhua/Rahel Patrasso)
SAO PAULO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Duvan Zapata's late goal helped Colombia defeat Qatar in their second Group B match at the 2019 Copa America on Wednesday, meaning Colombia have qualified for the quarterfinals of the tournament.
It was not until the 86th minute that Zapata broke the deadlock by heading into the far corner of the net following a fine assist from James Rodriguez, who continued his good form at the tournament after having set up Roger Martinez's first goal in a 2-0 win over Argentina in Colombia's opening match.
Against Qatar, Carlos Queiroz's men created several chances but struggled to penetrate their opponents' obdurate defense.
Queiroz said afterwards that he had been expecting a tough contest, calling Qatar a well-organized team. The coach added that he may consider rotating his squad for their final group game against Paraguay on Sunday.
In Group B's other match, Argentina could only draw 1-1 with Paraguay, meaning Colombia are assured of first place in Group B with six points. Paraguay lie second with two points, while Qatar and Argentina have one point apiece and will face each other in the group stage's crucial final game.
