Uruguay emerged victorious over Brazil in a tense Copa America quarter-final, advancing 4-2 on penalties after a scoreless draw.
The match at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas was a physical battle with 41 fouls, but neither side could find the net in regulation time.
Uruguay’s defense held strong despite playing with 10 men after Nahitan Nandez received a red card following a VAR review. Goalkeeper Sergio Rochet was a key figure, denying Brazil’s best chance from Raphinha.
Manuel Ugarte stepped up to score the winning penalty for Uruguay after Eder Militao missed for Brazil and Douglas Luiz struck the post.
They now face Colombia, who earlier thrashed Panama 5-0, in the semi-final on Wednesday.
“It was a very demanding match against a tough opponent,” said Rochet. “We showed character despite being a young team, especially after going down to ten men. We deserve this immense happiness, and the country deserves it too. We’re excited and determined to keep pushing forward.”
In the other quarter-final, Colombia dominated Panama with a 5-0 victory. James Rodriguez orchestrated the win with a goal and two assists.
Jhon Cordoba, Luis Diaz, Richard Rios, and Miguel Borja also got on the scoresheet for Colombia. They will await the winner of Argentina vs. Canada in the other semi-final.
