Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo said his side paid the price for failing to convert pressure into goals after being eliminated 4-3 on penalties by Switzerland following a thrilling goalless draw after extra time in the last 16.
In a press conference that lasted just over three minutes, Lorenzo said Colombia had done enough in 120 minutes to earn more from a match he described as tight, tactical and balanced.
“What we lacked without a doubt was to score a goal,” Lorenzo told reporters.
«We knew it would be a very closed game, very tactical, very even. Still, I think we deserved a little more in the 90 minutes because of the intentions we had and the shots we made.»
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Lorenzo said the match gradually lost its rhythm, with both teams tiring before the stalemate went to penalties.
The Colombian coach also defended his decision to replace midfielder Jhon Arias, saying it was prompted by fatigue and the risk of a second yellow card after being booked in the last 32 win over Ghana and could have missed a potential quarter-final.
Lorenzo also took off Luis Suarez late on, with the striker having already been shown a yellow card after an hour.
«We were afraid that with one late challenge we would have one player less. And also energy,» he said.
«We had fifteen attempts. That’s a lot, and not scoring, that’s what you pay for. There’s nothing to blame. Sometimes the ball goes in and sometimes it doesn’t.»
Published on July 8, 2026
