WHAT HAPPENED?
Rodriguez enjoyed a terrific run of form in Copa America last year as he helped Colombia reach the final of the tournament. The ex-Real Madrid star was even named the player of the tournament, but he failed to cross the final hurdle with his national team as reigning champions Argentina successfully defended their title by clinching the winner deep into the extra time.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite a stellar run of form, Rodriguez has still not gotten over the final heartbreak as he made serious allegations against the match official. The ex-Everton attacker claimed that La Albiceleste and Lionel Messi were favoured by the referee, who according to Rodriguez, did not give Colombia a genuine penalty.
WHAT JAMES RODRIGUEZ SAID
Speaking on the Los Amigos de Edu programme, Rodriguez said: “We had an excellent Copa America. Obviously, we wanted the title, but we didn’t win the Copa America because of external things, I think…The referee favoured Argentina. He didn’t give us penalties. For me a clear one.”
WHAT NEXT?
The 33-year-old has been named in the latest Colombia squad and is likely to take the field next against Brazil in a World Cup qualifying game on Friday.