New coach, same Colombia, says Ospina

Colombia goalkeeper David Ospina says a change of coach will not hamper his country’s chances of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.

The Nice shot stopper saw injury cripple his chance to play in the Copa America earlier this year and was forced to watch from the sidelines as an impressive Colombia side under Hernan Gomez topped their group before going out to Peru.

Gomez since resigned amid personal scandal but Ospina confirmed his faith in replacement Leonel Alvarez to continue the good work.

“The change of coach is not a concern,” Ospina told Fifa.com.

“He was the assistant coach so he knows the system well. Nothing has changed and I don’t see why we should start everything from scratch.”

Colombia have not qualified for the World Cup since 1998, and even though an extra space has opened up due to Brazil’s hosting duties, Ospina is taking nothing for granted.

“Even with nine teams in the group it’s going to be very, very tough,” said the former Atletico Nacional keeper.

“Without Brazil, the other sides will see it as their chance to reach the World Cup. It will be a long and difficult journey, because there are so many good South American players who compete in Europe.”

Colombia begin their journey to the 2014 World Cup away to Bolivia on October 11.