Sports Desk, July 7 (EFE).- Ten-man Uruguay knocked Brazil out of the Copa America with a 4-2 win in a penalty shootout, after a goalless quarterfinal match Saturday in Las Vegas that sets up a semifinal tie against Colombia.
Fede Valverde led the way in the shootout with a perfect penalty before Eder Militao and Douglas Luiz missed for Brazil.
Facing a 1-3 deficit, Alisson saved Jose Maria Gimenez’s shot to give Brazil a lifeline, but Manuel Ugarte successfully converted his shot to send Uruguayan fans into delirium at the Allegiant Stadium. This closed the curtains to the Canarinha’s lackluster tournament.
The game involving two South American powerhouses failed to meet expectations as both teams preferred caution over aggression, resulting in a tournament-high 41 fouls and just four shots on goal combined.
Uruguay’s Nahitan Nandez was sent off after a red card in the 74th minute for a dangerous tackle on Rodrygo. Still, Brazil could not take advantage of their 10-man opponents in the remaining minutes.
Uruguay were very physical and performed an excellent high press, making it difficult for Brazil to play.
The first time, Rodrygo, Brazil’s major hope for a goal in the absence of suspended Vinicius Junior, escaped the pressure. Nendez knocked him down with a strong foul.
Argentine Referee Dario Herrera flashed a red card after reviewing the incident on the screen.
Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa responded by taking off Darwin Nunez to make way for Giorgian De Arrascaeta, who defended well to help the side hold Brazil.
Brazil‘s Dorival Junior kept Endrick, a first-time starter, on the field and replaced Rodrygo, Lucas Paqueta, and Raphinha with others in search of a breakthrough that never came.
Uruguay’s opponents in Wednesday’s semifinals at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, will be Colombia. The Cafeteros thrashed Panama 5-0 on Saturday to reach the tournament’s penultimate stage.
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