Fortaleza: Greece rode on Georgios Samaras’ injury-time penalty to pull off a sensational 2-1 win over Ivory Coast and reach the second round of the World Cup for the first time, while Colombia mantained their unbeaten record and spanked Japan 4-1 to draw curtains on Asia’s challenge in the event.
Greece were awarded a late penalty after Samaras was adjudged to have been tripped in the area by substitute Giovanni Sio, and the lanky striker calmly slotted in the spot kick in the 91st minute to take his side into knockout stage.
It was heartbreak for Ivory Coast as a draw would have been enough for them to advance to the next stage. Greece, who were at the bottom of Group C before the game began, finished second behind Colombia.
Fully aware that only a win could keep their hopes alive, Greece started brightly and took the lead just before half time through young Andreas Samaris, who pounced on a defensive error to slot the ball home.
But Wilfried Bony equalised for Ivory Coast in the 74th minute from close range and it looked like the goal would put the Africans through until the late drama.
Later in the day, Jackson Martinez scored twice to help Colombia beat Japan 4-1 and register their third consecutive win.
Disaster struck for Japan after 15 minutes when Yasuyuki Konna chopped down Adrian Ramos in the penalty area.
Portuguese referee Pedro Proenca pointed to the spot and Fiorentina striker Juan Cuadrado confidently fired the kick past Japanese goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima.
The match made World Cup history when Farid Mondragan beat Roger Milla’s record as the oldest player at any finals tournament. The Colombian goalkeeper came on as a substitute for the last six minutes at the age of 43 years and three days.
Colombia will play Uruguay in the round of 16 at Rio de Janeiro’s historic Estadio do Maracana on Saturday, while Greece will face Costa Rica in the second round on Sunday at Recife. (Agencies)
