Colombia secured their place in the Copa America 2024 final after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uruguay in the second semifinal match.
The win sets up a thrilling final showdown with Argentina on Monday, July 15.
Jefferson Lerma was the hero, scoring the decisive goal with a header from a James Rodriguez corner in the 39th minute.
The match was not without controversy, as tensions boiled over between players and fans after the final whistle.
Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez, who was at the center of the post-match fracas, missed several key opportunities to put Uruguay ahead. His frustrations were compounded when Crystal Palace midfielder Lerma broke the deadlock for Colombia.
The Coffee Growers faced adversity when Daniel Munoz was sent off at the end of the first half after receiving a second yellow card for elbowing Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Colombia’s defense held firm against relentless Uruguayan pressure.
Uruguay came close to equalising in the second half, with Luis Suarez hitting the post and Darwin Nunez failing to capitalise on his chances. Colombia’s Mateus Uribe also missed two late opportunities to extend their lead, but his side managed to hold on for the win.
The match ended in chaotic scenes as Darwin Nunez became involved in an altercation with spectators. The Uruguayan striker physically confronted Colombia fans, leading to disorder near the area where friends and family of the players were seated. According to Uruguayan outlet El Pais, the disturbance occurred close to where the players’ loved ones were located.
Colombia will now prepare to face Argentina in the Copa America final, scheduled for Monday, July 15 at 0100 BST. Meanwhile, Uruguay will compete against Canada in the third-place playoff on Sunday, July 14 at 0100 BST.
The post Copa America 2024: 10-man Colombia beat Uruguay to set up final with Argentina first appeared on 3News.
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