With Manuel Ugarte scoring from the spot in penalty shootout, Uruguay advanced to the Copa America semi-final. Brazil lost 4-2 on penalties after both the teams failed to score a goal in the high-voltage encounter.
Both the teams had an off day making a tournament-high 41 fouls. There were just four shots on target. Brazil had a crack in the game when Uruguay’s Nahitan Nandez was sent off after a red card in the 74th minute for a dangerous tackle on Rodrygo but Brazil failed to break even a 10-man opponent.
Brazil missed the services of their Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior who was suspended by getting two yellow cards.
Uruguay have now beaten Brazil in back-to-back matches for the first time since 1992. Their victory in World Cup Qualifier was first over Brazil after 13 meetings since 2001.
Brazil’s coach takes responsibility after Copa exit
Brazil coach Dorival Junior said he takes "full responsibility" for his team's Copa América quarterfinal exit.
“There were positives in every match,” said the coach who took the charge in January. “It's only natural after a match like this one that something we'd consider positive is ruled out. I'm aware of that. We didn't perform at a high technical level, but I don't throw out any of the matches. There was dedication, fighting spirit. It was always a courageous team. I believe we had more positives than negatives. The fact we didn't seize (the opportunity) despite outnumbering (Uruguay) will be analysed.”
Uruguay to the SF
Uruguay advanced to the semifinals of Copa America for the first time since winning the tournament in 2011. This is the first time Uruguay has knocked out Brazil since 1995 in four attempts.
Uruguay will face Colombia on July 10. Colombia sailed into the semi-finals with a comfortable 5-0 win over Panama. The other two semifinalists of Copa America, Argentina and Canada will clash on June 9. The Copa America final will be played on July 14 in Miami Gardens.
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