SAMARA, Russia (AFP) — Colombia coach Jose Pekerman kept faith with the attacking front line that thumped Poland 3-0 as the South Americans prepared to take on Senegal today, targeting a place in the World Cup last 16.

Pekerman’s decision to pair left-footed midfielders Juan Quintero and James Rodriguez in Kazan was hailed as a tactical masterstroke after both players played a key part in the goals that reignited Colombia’s campaign.

Colombia, who lost their opener 2-1 to Japan following an early red card for Carlos Sanchez, probably need to beat Senegal in Samara if they are to advance to the knockouts and are expected to attack from kick-off.

Espanyol’s Sanchez returns after his one-match suspension, replacing Abel Aguilar in the right-sided midfield holding role alongside Mateus Uribe, with Wilmar Barrios dropping to the bench.

Senegal, who sit second in the group, level on four points with Japan and one head of Colombia, need only to avoid defeat in Samara to qualify for the last 16.

Coach Aliou Cisse’s key change for their final group game was the inclusion of Monaco striker Keita Balde, who starts up front, making World Cup debut alongside Mbaye Niang.

Starting line-ups for the World Cup Group H match between Senegal and Colombia in Samara today (1400 GMT):

Senegal (4-4-2)

Khadim Ndiaye; Lamine Gassama, Salif Sane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Youssouf Sabaly; Ismaila Sarr, Cheikhou Kouyate, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Sadio Mane (capt); Keita Balde, Mbaye Niang

Coach: Aliou Cisse (SEN)Colombia (4-2-3-1)

David Ospina; Santiago Arias, Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina, Johan Mojica; Mateus Uribe, Carlos Sanchez; Juan Cuadrado, Juan Quintero, James Rodriguez; Radamel Falcao (capt)

Coach: Jose Pekerman (ARG)

Referee: Milorad Mazic (SRB)