The Colombian press is unanimous: Carlos Cuesta is the big revelation of this series of qualifying matches. "What a discovery," the headlines read. After a convincing debut against Chile last month, he has gained the confidence of national coach Reinaldo Rueda and he has not in the least disappointed.

Four days after an impeccable performance against Uruguay – an 0-0 draw in Montevideo against Suarez and Cavani – our Colombian international also kept a clean sheet against Brazil. This most recent 0-0 draw is a vital point for the Colombians to further their plans for World Cup qualification. Neymar, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Barbosa, Lucas Paquetá and co: they all were frustrated by the wall that is Carlos Cuesta, who again started alongside Yerry Mina in the center of defence, keeping regular starter Davinson Sánchez (Tottenham) on the bench again. Cuesta again showed excellent anticipation, and with his pace was quick to close down the opposition. For Brazil, it was only the first time they had dropped points, having had a perfect start to the current qualifying cycle. "Being able to defend so well against Neymar-level players is a dream come true, and the fruit of many years of hard work," Cuesta said afterwards. His two teammates from Genk did not play; Daniel Muñoz stayed on the bench, while Jhon Lucumí sat in the stands.

Later this week, Colombia will face Ecuador, who surprisingly lost in Venezuela (2-1), with Angelo Preciado playing for more than an hour.

There was a bitter defeat as well for the US (1-0 in Panama); Mark McKenzie played the full 90 minutes. The Americans will play again against Costa Rica on Thursday night.