Colombia Tops Honduras to Reach Final

Victor Aristizabal’s athletic goal in the 63rd minute Thursday assured Colombia a 2-0 victory over Honduras and a spot in Sunday’s Copa America final against Mexico.

It also virtually guaranteed high-scoring honors for the 27-year-old striker, who had been tied at five goals with Costa Rica’s Paulo Wanchope. His closest rival is Honduras’ Amadao Guevara, with three.

But it meant more to Colombians, who celebrated afterward with chants of “Ole” and an explosion of joy in the stands and the streets.

The commemoration seemed improbable only four weeks ago when the tournament was almost called off because of political violence.

“I dedicate the goal to this beautiful country we have,” Aristizabal said.