Brazil’s quest for Copa America glory came to a disappointing end on Saturday as they fell to Uruguay 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The match, held at a packed stadium, ended goalless after 90 minutes of play, with no extra time being part of the tournament’s regulations.
The high-stakes encounter at the Copa America was a fierce battle, marked by 41 fouls, four yellow cards, and a late red card for Uruguay’s right-back Nahitan Nández.
Nández received a red card close to the final whistle for a reckless studs-up tackle on Brazil‘s Rodrygo, an incident that required a VAR review before the referee brandished the red card.
Despite the numerical advantage, Brazil couldn’t capitalize in the remaining minutes, and the match proceeded to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Uruguay kept their composure, converting four of their five penalties, while Brazil faltered, missing twice.
Uruguay’s goalkeeper, Sergio Rochet, emerged as the hero, saving crucial spot-kicks and leading his team to victory. Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz then hit the post with Brazil’s third penalty kick and Uruguay was firmly in the driving seat and leading 3-1.
Alisson Becker also saved a penalty to give Brazil some hope in the end but Manuel Ugarte calmly slotted the last penalty to send his team into the semi-finals.
The defeat is a significant setback for Brazil, who were among the pre-tournament favorites and had hoped to add another Copa America title to their illustrious history.
The result sends Uruguay into the semifinals, where they will face an in-form Colombia who are unbeaten for the last 28 matches.
