Colombia's Zapata warns about Japan's tie

Sao Paulo, June 22 (IANS/EFE) Colombian defender Cristian Zapata has warned his teammates about their match against Japan in the third round match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Group C, describing the team as "strong."

"You have to think game by game. Japan is a strong team and has good players. It is a tough game for us," said Zapata, who plays for AC Milan, reports EFE.

The 27-year-old player also talked about replacing Luis Perea with veteran 38-year-old defender Mario Yepes, who is the source of Colombia's strength, as described by Zapata.

Colombia top Group C ahead of Japan, Greece and Cote d'Ivoire with six points.

--IANS/EFE

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