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Uruguay has advanced to the semi-finals of the Copa America after defeating Brazil on penalties in a tense quarter-final match. The game ended goalless after regular time and Uruguay prevailed 4-2 in the shootout.
Despite being reduced to 10 men in the 74th minute when Nahitan Nandez was sent off, Uruguay managed to hold off Brazil’s attacks. They will now face Colombia in the semi-finals in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday.
Colombia, undefeated in 27 games, earlier secured their spot in the semi-finals by thrashing Panama 5-0 in Arizona.
In the other semi-final match scheduled for Tuesday in New Jersey, world champions Argentina will take on Canada.
For Brazil, the exit marks a disappointing end to a tournament where they struggled to find their rhythm. Coach Dorival Junior expressed concern over their technical performance but praised the team’s commitment and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
The Copa America, hosted in the United States, has seen Uruguay emerge as a resilient contender despite challenges on the field, including a subpar playing surface. Both teams struggled with 41 fouls during the match, reflecting its intensity.
Uruguay’s victory was sealed in the penalty shootout after Federico Valverde’s successful kick and crucial saves by goalkeeper Sergio Rochet. Gabriel Martinelli kept Brazil’s hopes alive with a late penalty conversion, but Manuel Ugarte secured Uruguay’s semi-final berth with a composed finish.