James Rodriguez's Redemption in Copa América
James Rodríguez, the assist leader with five in the Copa América in the United States, publicly redeemed himself this Saturday and warned that the toughest challenges are yet to come, looking ahead to the semifinals against Uruguay.
"I'm going through a very good phase, and so are my teammates," said the São Paulo player, who has barely played since the season started in Brazil, in statements in the mixed zone at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
James confessed to feeling "a beautiful responsibility" as the national team captain, stating that his main goal is "to play well" and "help" his teammates, whom he credits for his ability to shine on the field.
"Everyone knows that I give everything for this jersey," he asserted.
However, he emphasized that "the toughest challenges" are still ahead but also reminded that they are only two games away from winning the continental title.
"I just want to win," said the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich player.
Before learning that Uruguay would be their opponent in the semifinals, James said the Colombian team is "ready to face any opponent" on the 10th in Charlotte.
The player, who will turn 33 on July 12, praised the performance of the team led by Argentine Néstor Lorenzo for their 5-0 quarterfinal victory over Panama in Glendale.
"We played with a lot of intensity, and that is reflected in the result. We did things right today," he celebrated.
Jhon Córdoba, James Rodríguez (who also provided two assists), Luis Díaz, Richard Ríos, and Miguel Borja were the goal scorers for the Colombian team, extending their unbeaten streak to 27 matches, equaling the best run in their history.
