Colombia’s 100 million Euro men: Did James and Falcao meet expectations?

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: June 8, 2013

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It was the first big transfer coup of the summer window, and by far the biggest deal in Colombian football history. Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez, the Cafeteros' brightest stars, agreed terms to sign with Ligue 1 new boys Monaco within days of each other. The transfer, as estimated by Goal.com, will cost the French side a staggering €105 million—60 shelled out for the former Atletico Madrid man while James earned Porto €45m. 

On Friday night in the Monumental, we had the first chance since confirmation of the transfer to see what the pair could offer Monaco. Based on this first showing, more will be necessary should the club wish to topple Paris Saint-Germain at the top of Ligue 1. 

First signs were encouraging. Rodriguez slotted into the Colombia side in a traditional No. 10 position as they took on Argentina in an away World Cup qualifier, dictating play in the opening minutes and impressing even Albiceleste fans with his accomplished footwork. He tended to veer towards the left, playing more than one pass in behind Pablo Zabaleta to feed winger Pablo Armero in a move that left Argentina looking narrow and limited at the back. 

Early in the match, the ex-Banfield wonderkid thought he had earned Colombia a dream lead. A wonderful ball released Jackson Martinez down the middle, who finished with class; but the linesman's flag was already up, and his former Porto teammate was deprived of the type of assist he has thrived on all year from the 21-year-old star. 



Falcao, meanwhile, took up his habitual post in the penalty area, trying to feed off the likes of Rodriguez, Armero and Jackson Martinez. There were few clear chances, an early header that shot wide when he really should have hit the target stood out, but the Monaco pair's presence was a key factor nonetheless in making the opening half hour an all-action, gripping game of football. 

Approa...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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