Austin Peay Sports Information
Clarksville, TN – After a Round of 16 berth in the 2015 World Cup, former Austin Peay State University star Tatiana Ariza and the Colombian National Team continued its success at the Pan American Games in Toronto.
Ariza appeared in each of the five matches, including four starts throughout the eight-team tournament.Her time on the pitch also increased compared to the previous competition, playing 302 minutes, which led to more scoring chances beginning in the group stage.
Colombia advanced to the semifinals after defeating Mexico, drawing with Trinidad and Tobago, and knocking off Argentina. Against Trinidad and Tobago, Ariza was credited with a team-high six shots, five of which were on goal.
With a spot in the gold medal game on the line, Ariza played the full 90 minutes in the second round before being subbed off in extra time. Colombia would go on to upset host nation Canada, 1-0, thanks to an early goal in the 29th minute.
In the championship match, the high-powered attack of Brazil was overwhelming, with three second half goals leading to a shutout over Colombia, 4-0. Ariza started the match before coming off at halftime, concluding her extended time north of the border with added experience and a silver medal.