OMNISPORT 

Colombia's bronze-medal finish at the Copa America Centenario was satisfying for coach Jose Pekerman, who believes the South Americans are edging closer to silverware.

Carlos Bacca's 31st-minute goal gave Colombia a 1-0 victory over the host  United States in Saturday's third-place playoff in Phoenix.

Bacca's sliced effort just past the half-hour mark was enough as Colombia recorded its best performance at the Copa America since the nation won the tournament in 2001 - its only international triumph.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Pekerman said: "Being on the podium is good. Ratify the mentality that the group has.

"The more times we can get to these stages, the closer we are to win titles.

"It is very positive growth of the boys."

Colombia missed out on a spot in Sunday's final after losing 2-0 to defending champion Chile.

FIFA's third-ranked team, Colombia, won its opening matches against the U.S. and Paraguay before surrendering top spot in Group A following a loss to Costa Rica, though it rebounded in the quarterfinals by prevailing over Peru in a shootout.

"They have to understand what international competition is about and the balance," Pekerman said.

"We are in the playoffs and have seen the ups and downs of the different teams."