South American nation Colombia might not have called up Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos in this international break but even without El Bufalo they managed some retribution against Brazil.
Morelos’ indifferent Rangers form saw the forward left out of Reinaldo Rueda’s squad for the World Cup Qualifiers against the Seleção, Uruguay, and Ecuador.
But whilst other forwards were preferred to Morelos, Los Cafeteros drew a blank for the second match in a row against Brazil following a draw with Uruguay.
However – and whilst every point is a prisoner at this stage – Colombia may not be too disheartened by the result against the Brazilians.
The last time the two clubs played – in the Copa America eventually won by Argentina in the summer – Brazil ran out 2-1 winners in controversial circumstances.
Colombia had stopped playing when the ball hit the referee and Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino took full advantage to head home an equaliser.
The protestations and subsequent VAR check – which allowed the goal to stand – then accounted for over 10 minutes of injury time with Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro netting the winner in the 10th minute of added time.
Colombia’s players were defiant in defeat and this 0-0 draw in Barranquilla was the first encounter between the two sides since.
The result – which leaves Colombia 5th and Brazil 1st in South American World Cup Qualification – has added significance for a couple of reasons.
Not only is it Brazil’s first dropped points of World Cup Qualification, but the dropped points mean Tite’s side can’t go top of the FIFA World Rankings during this break.
Belgium currently sit top of the pile but after losing to Italy in the 3rd place playoff of the UEFA Nations League Brazil could’ve overtaken them with two victories.
As the Cheraw Chronicle explains, had Brazil beaten Colombia and then Uruguay later in the week they’d be catapulted to the top of the rankings.
However, even without Rangers star Alfredo Morelos, Colombia will take some solace in the fact they’ve landed one on their South American rivals after their last meeting in the summer.
Whilst Alfie missed out for Colombia, another Rangers striker has been leaving a bit of an impression on international duty this week.
