Unforgettable Strike by Catalina Usme Propels Colombia to Quarter-Finals, Setting the Stage for Epic Clash with England at Women's World Cup

Colombia secured their spot in the Women's World Cup quarter-finals with a remarkable goal from Catalina Usme, defeating Jamaica 1-0. This historic victory sets up an exciting showdown against England on Saturday, a team that is expected to be a tough opponent. Despite not being considered favorites, both Colombia and Jamaica proved their worth in the group stages, making this upcoming match in Melbourne all the more captivating.

The opening 45 minutes, unfortunately, were marked by numerous injuries and fouls, resulting in a slow and attritional affair. However, the second half presented a much smoother flow of the game when Colombia captain Usme scored a remarkable goal with an impressive first touch. It was the only goal that the Reggae Girlz had conceded throughout the entire World Cup.

Drew Spence came closest to scoring the equalizing goal for Jamaica, while Leicy Santos narrowly missed hitting the post in the late stages of the game. Nevertheless, Colombia, who had only reached the last 16 in 2015, managed to secure their spot in the quarterfinals without requiring an additional goal. This victory sets up an exciting match against the Lionesses in Sydney.

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How Colombia beat Jamaica

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Usme scored after a fine first touch

The opening half-hour in Melbourne was filled with stop-start moments and nerves, offering very few opportunities. Colombia came closest to scoring when Diana Ospina's weak shot was easily saved by Becky Spencer. Additionally, a cross from Usme into the box missed Leicy Santos but was gathered by the Jamaica goalkeeper.

However, the tide began to turn as the Colombians started creating more chances. By the end of the half, they had taken seven shots compared to Jamaica's two. Following a series of corners, Jorelyn Carabali lifted a shot over the crossbar from a short distance.

Jamaica's best chances came in the four minutes of injury-time. Khadija Shaw nodded over from a corner, before Jody Brown's toe-poked effort was scooped up by Catalina Perez.

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Drew Spence went close for Jamaica late in the second half

Nine minutes into the second half, the game ignited when Usme propelled Colombia into the lead. Ana Maria Guzman delivered a perfectly placed cross that found the captain on the right side of the penalty area. With a remarkable first touch, she outmaneuvered her defender and calmly scored the goal.

Jamaica came close to equalizing moments later, as Jody Brown's header hit the post. Linda Caicedo also had a shot blocked by Spencer, while Mayra Ramirez was unable to gain control of the rebound.

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Jamaican striker Khadija Shaw couldn't lead her team to the quarter-finals despite their efforts. Despite Jamaica's relentless push for a goal, it was Colombia who created more promising opportunities. However, the Reggae Girlz had a chance to equalize in the 82nd minute, but Tottenham defender Spence narrowly missed the target with her header.

Colombia will play England in the quarter-finals on Saturday in Sydney. Kick-off is at 11.30am.

What's next?

What is the schedule?

Following the quarter-finals, the first semi-final is set to take place on August 15 in Auckland. The other semi-final will be held on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. Moreover, Sydney's Accor Stadium will serve as the venue for the final match, scheduled for August 20.

A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.