Colombia wary of DR Congo threat as Lorenzo calls for calm heads

He warns DR Congo would pose a different tactical challenge

Colombia's Luis Diaz and Jhon Arias walk off the pitch after being substituted. REUTERS

Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo said on Monday his side must neutralise DR Congo's counter-attacking threat while maintaining their identity when the teams meet in World Cup Group K on Tuesday in Guadalajara.

The South Americans opened with a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan and can secure a round of 32 berth with victory, but Lorenzo warned DR Congo, who drew 1-1 with Portugal in their opener, would pose a different tactical challenge.

• Congo's 5-3-2 formation, with two forwards held high, makes transitions and counter-attacks the key danger to manage, Lorenzo said.

• Luis Diaz scored and assisted against Uzbekistan and Lorenzo praised the Bayern Munich forward's versatility.

• "The important thing is not how many times he attacks, but how the moves finish," Lorenzo said of Diaz. "Lucho is a complete forward."

• Lorenzo said he had no major selection doubts and declined to name his lineup.

• Lorenzo urged his players to channel the crowd's energy without losing composure, after several were visibly moved against Uzbekistan at the Azteca Stadium.

• "We have to play with a hot heart and a cool head," he said.