James Rodriguez had us all reminiscing his heroics a decade ago as Colombia triumphed over Paraguay in a nail-biting match. The 32-year-old was undoubtedly the star of the game. He assisted two goals to help Colombia seal a victory in their opening game. He’s been running it back with Colombia for a while now, dazzling the South American audience with his skills and flicks. One can’t help but be reminded of his breakout season where he lit up the world’s biggest stage in Brazil.
Last Of A Kind
James plays a position that has been dead for a while now. The number 10 in football, which was once associated with legends holds no significant value now. James now represents a dying breed of players whose game is based on their touch and tease. Tactics and positioning now determine the success of a team in football, with the game becoming more robotic as a result, as opposed to the quality and intelligence of individual players being the deciding factor. Players like James who used their ability to bring joy to the people have all but discarded from the game. Even James himself has said that the playmaker role has disappeared from football. He and Isco remain the final bastions of a lost generation.
James Brings Joy To Colombia
As the game becomes more rigid than ever, players like James remind us what football is really about. The ability to bring joy and happiness to people. Players who are athletic and fast may please coaches but geniuses like James possess the power to please a nation. This Copa America may well be the Bond of Banfield’s last tango and he is sure to go down swinging. Colombia has achieved a first-round victory with thanks to him. But tougher games await, with Costa Rica and Brazil awaiting them in the next two matchdays. Rodriguez will be looking to rewind time and lead Colombia to a continental title after 23 years of hurt.
