James Rodriguez achieves rare feat during Colombia's 5-0 win against Panama

Colombia defeated Panama 4-0, and thanks to a brilliant performance by captain James Rodriguez, they are now heading to the Copa America semifinals.

Following a 5-0 thrashing of Panama in the quarterfinals on Saturday night, Colombia advanced towards the Copa America semifinals. They got out to an early lead as Jhon Cordoba scored the first goal in the eighth minute. The game began early when a corner kick from James Rodriguez found the forward's head.

Rodriguez then increased their lead during the fifteenth minute, scoring a goal and providing an assist in the first few minutes of play. Just before the half, Luis Diaz of Liverpool, a winger, gave Colombia a third goal with a clever attempt that lobbed the goalie following some excellent feed from Rodriguez.

Panama made some changes at halftime, but Colombia's three goals in the first half spoke the tale. It was too little, too late. They scored two more goals in the 71st and 92nd minutes, respectively, with a long-range attempt from Richard Rios' boot and a late penalty kick goal from Miguel Borja.

Right now, Colombia has the longest ever unbeaten streak in men's international soccer history. They defeated Panama to extend their amazing record to 27 games without a loss. Their most recent defeat occurred during February 2022, at the behest of Argentina and Lionel Messi.

What unique feat has James Rodriguez reached in Copa America 2024?

James Rodriguez is now the first player in Copa América history to have contributed to three goals during the first half in a single match thanks to his efforts tonight. On Saturday, he recorded two more assists in Copa America 2024 to his already tally of three. 

Furthermore, he scored his first goal of this year’s competition. In addition to leading his country to their 27th straight game without a loss, he put on a passing entourage and was an expert at dead ball set-piece attempts. Colombia would now face the winner of the final quarter-final between Brazil and Uruguay and would have all eyes on how that contest unfolds.