Manuel Ugarte Seals Uruguay’s Copa America Semifinal Berth with Penalty Heroics Against Brazil
Uruguay secured a thrilling 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Brazil, advancing to the Copa America semifinals after a tense goalless draw on Saturday night. The match, marred by a tournament-high 41 fouls and minimal scoring opportunities, saw Uruguay’s Nahitan Nández dismissed with a red card in the 74th minute for a challenge on Rodrygo, yet Brazil couldn’t capitalize on their numerical advantage.
Goalkeeper Sergio Rochet played a pivotal role in Uruguay’s triumph, saving Éder Militão’s and denying Douglas Luiz’s attempts. Despite Alisson Becker’s heroics in saving José María Giménez’s penalty, it was Manuel Ugarte who clinched the win with a decisive strike.
Uruguay’s victory sets up a semifinal clash with Colombia in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday, while Colombia’s dominant 5-0 win over Panama extended their impressive unbeaten streak to 27 matches earlier on Saturday.
Meanwhile, defending champions Argentina will face Canada in the other semifinal on Tuesday in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with the final set for July 14 in Miami Gardens.
Missing the suspended Vinícius Júnior and still without Neymar due to injury, Brazil struggled to find offensive rhythm throughout the tournament, culminating in their first elimination by Uruguay since 1995. Uruguay, under the guidance of famed coach Marcelo Bielsa, notched their first back-to-back wins against Brazil since 1992.
The match, played in the Las Vegas Raiders’ air-conditioned stadium amid scorching 113-degree Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius) heat outside, attracted notable spectators including NBA stars Joel Embiid and Devin Booker, who were seated in Vinícius Júnior’s box.
