Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez likened James Rodriguez to Diego Maradona after his sublime volley inspired Colombia to a 2-0 victory in the World Cup last 16 on Saturday.

"For me, special talents are those who do things that are completely out of the ordinary," said Tabarez, whose side were beaten by two Rodriguez goals at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

"Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, James Rodriguez -- they do things becaue they have certain gifts that make them special."

Rodriguez, 22, opened the scoring in the 28th minute of the game with a sensational goal, chesting the ball down and hammering a volley in off the crossbar from 25 yards.

He doubled his tally early in the second half, sweeping home Juan Cuadrado's knock-down to move to the top of the Golden Boot standings with five goals.

"I believe he's the best player at the World Cup," Tabarez added. "I don't think I'm exaggerating. He's a young player. We tried to limit his influence, but he kept going and made his presence felt.

"Hopefully he'll continue to progress, because he's very young. Football needs players with these characteristics."

Colombia's victory means that they will face hosts Brazil in the quarter-finals in Fortaleza on July 4.