Jose Pekerman says he is proud of his players after guiding Colombia into next year’s World Cup finals in Brazil.

Trailing 3-0 at the break against Chile, Pekerman’s side staged a thrilling comeback, with a goal from Teofilo Gutierrez’s and two late penalties from Radamel Falcao confirming Colombia’s place at the finals for the first time since 1998.

"I am with a group of players that I am very proud of," said Pekerman. "In football, very few times have I seen a team in qualifying come back from 3-0 down. For that reason I am very proud of them.

"We know we've had good games and had bad games. We have had some surprises. We have defects and good qualities. It's very important that the team has always has felt and acted in this manner."

Having led his home nation, Argentina, at the 2006 World Cup, Pekerman is confident he team can do well in Brazil.

"I am proud of what the team achieved. It's very difficult in football to have these two things: to have players with talent, good players, and to have this rebellious attitude and to get such a result, facing it head on. It's marvellous."