Uruguay, 15-time Copa América champions, secured a spot in the 2024 semifinals by defeating Brazil 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless match in Paradise, Nevada.
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Uruguay, 15-time winner of the Copa América in football, qualified for the semifinals of the 2024 edition on Saturday by beating Brazil 4-2 in a penalty shootout, after a goalless 90 minutes in Paradise, Nevada.
The match was intense and closely contested, with both teams having opportunities to score, but strong defensive performances and goalkeeping kept the scoreline empty.
The sky-blue team, which has not won the tournament since 2011, prevailed in the shootout by scoring four out of five penalties. Uruguay's precision and composure under pressure were evident as they converted their chances efficiently. In contrast, Brazil only converted two out of four, with Éder Militão and Douglas Luiz missing their attempts, which ultimately cost them the game.
Of the FC Porto players present in the Brazilian national team, only Evanilson entered the field, replacing Bruno Guimarães in the 87th minute. Despite the late substitution, Evanilson couldn't change the course of the game in Brazil's favor. On the other side, Manuel Ugarte, a former Sporting player, showcased his nerves of steel by scoring Uruguay's final penalty, sealing their spot in the semifinals.
In the semifinals, scheduled for Wednesday at 8:00 PM local time (1:00 AM), in Charlotte, Uruguay will face Colombia. Colombia, the 2001 champion, comes into this match with high confidence, having defeated Panama 5-0 in the quarterfinals. This sets the stage for an exciting encounter between two strong teams vying for a place in the final. Uruguay will be looking to leverage their historical success and recent momentum, while Colombia will aim to continue their impressive form from the quarterfinals.
