MARGAO: The stage is all set for the grand finale of the Expo 2014 Unity World Cup with Nigeria to square it off with Colombia to lift the cup.
After a great and exciting second semi-final between Colombia and Portugal in the unusual December rain Colombia were able to get the better of Portugal with a solitary goal.
Both the teams displayed a very attacking and sleek brand of football to the audience especially the young kids from the different GFDC centers who came in large number to watch the match.
Jaime Celis of Columbia scored through a beautiful free-kick in the 34th minute.
Portugal thereafter increased the tempo of the game in search of the equalizer. The Colombians tried to capitalize on the gaps left by the Portuguese and increase their lead.
The teams started the second half with the same tempo they left during the lemon break. However, in the 69th minute Gabriel Atz of Portugal was awarded a red card for a reckless challenge leaving the Portuguese to battle on with only ten men.
Bruno Reis missed to capitalize on a Colombian defensive lapse in the dying minutes of normal time hitting the crossbar.
Martin Lozano of Colombia walked away with the man-of-the-match award received from the hands of Fr Tony from the SVD.
Children from Agnel Ashram Verna performed a choreographed sequence during the break at half time.
Brazil will play Egypt in a friendly match at 4.30 p.m. today at the Raia Panchayat grounds.
The final is slated for December 14, at 4 p.m. at the same venue.
The organisers of the event have urged all the football aficionados to come in large numbers for both the matches. The tickets for the final are priced at Rs 200 and Rs 100 being placed for sale at Bookmyshow.com, Pandal at Exposition Centre Old Goa, Cafe Coffee day outlet at petrol pump Margao, Chinchinim and Aquem Church, and at the Raia ground.
