NEVADA, USA: Uruguay secured a hard-fought victory over Brazil in the Copa America quarter-finals, prevailing 4-2 on penalties after a goalless draw that saw them finish with ten men. Despite Nahitan Nandez’s dismissal in the 74th minute, Uruguay held firm defensively and ultimately triumphed in the shootout.
The match, held in a city known more for boxing than football, was marred by a staggering 41 fouls, reflecting its physical intensity. The playing field’s poor quality further hampered both teams’ ability to showcase their best football, leading to a game characterized by scrappy play and few clear-cut chances.
Uruguay’s Darwin Nunez missed a crucial opportunity in the first half, heading wide from close range, while Brazil’s best chance was denied by a solid save from Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet. Throughout the game, Marcelo Bielsa’s side displayed their trademark tenacity, disrupting Brazil’s rhythm with relentless midfield pressure and tactical fouls.
Nandez’s red card threatened Uruguay’s chances, but they managed to hold on until the end of regulation, knowing that Copa America rules do not include extra time before penalties. In the shootout, Federico Valverde converted Uruguay’s first spot kick, setting the tone. Brazil faltered with Eder Militao’s saved effort and Douglas Luiz hitting the post, allowing Uruguay to take a commanding lead.
Although Brazil’s Gabriel Martinelli kept their hopes alive with a goal, Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte sealed their victory with a composed penalty, sending the 15-times Copa champions into the semi-finals.
Coach Bielsa praised his team’s composure under pressure, highlighting their defensive resilience and ability to create chances despite playing with a numerical disadvantage. Reflecting on the match, he acknowledged Uruguay’s shortcomings in attack but emphasized their overall performance against a formidable opponent like Brazil.
In contrast, Brazil’s coach Dorival Junior expressed disappointment with their technical execution throughout the tournament, despite remaining undefeated before the quarter-finals. He stressed the need for improvement ahead of the World Cup qualifiers, where Brazil currently sits in sixth place, a precarious position for qualifying.
Looking ahead, Uruguay will face Colombia in the semi-finals, while Brazil aims to regroup and strengthen their campaign for the upcoming World Cup. The Copa America final, set for July 14 in Miami, promises an exciting conclusion to the tournament, with Uruguay now positioned as strong contenders following their gritty victory over Brazil.
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Publish date : 2024-07-07 03:57:40
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