Colombia reaches the final of the Copa America against Argentina. In the semi-final, Uruguay is defeated despite being outnumbered. A prominent loser is involved in riots afterwards.
Colombia, including former Bayern player James Rodríguez, won the second semi-final of the Copa América, which was overshadowed by riots, and will face Argentina, including superstar Lionel Messi, in the final. The Colombians beat Uruguay 1-0 (1-0) at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, despite having to play the entire second half with ten players. “We made history that night,” said a visibly moved Rodríguez after the final whistle.
After the heated match, Uruguay’s striker Darwin Núñez and other players ran into the stands surrounded by Colombian fans. A video shows the 25-year-old Liverpool striker hitting a man in a yellow shirt. The South American football association Conmebol condemned the riots.
The victory gives Colombia a chance of winning its second Copa title – the only one so far was 23 years ago (2001). Uruguay missed out on a duel between the record winners and defending champion Argentina, both teams have already won the Copa América 15 times. On Sunday night, they will play Canada for third place. The final in Miami will take place on Monday night.
Colombia outnumbered from the second half
Things got exciting just before half-time: Jefferson Lerma headed in a corner from Rodríguez in the 39th minute to make it 1-0. It was Rodríguez’s sixth assist in the tournament, surpassing Messi’s previous record. Shortly afterwards, Colombian Daniel Muñoz was sent off with a second yellow card.
The second half was initially characterised by many fouls and interruptions. With fewer players, Colombia increasingly retreated into their own half, while Uruguay applied increasing pressure. A shot that hit the post by Luis Suárez, who was only substituted on in the 66th minute, was just one of many chances. In the end, Colombia held on to their narrow lead until the end.
Source: Stern
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