SAN JOSE, Calif. — When most fans consider the Colombia national team, they think of the high-flying attack, James Rodriguez's thousand-watt smile and the salsa-dancing goal celebrations of a fun-loving side.
What often gets overlooked, however, is the edge the Cafeteros display, a physical side that counterbalances their flash and skill. Some would call it rough play; some might even go a bit further.
"They're a little dirty," U.S. national team midfielder Alejandro Bedoya told Goal USA. "We just have to match their intensity and be just as physical and dirty with them too, and not get pushed around.