Uruguay beat Canada to take third place in the 2024 Copa América after a dramatic 2-2 draw and penalty shootout.
Chasers: Koné 22′, David 80′; Bentancur 8′, Suárez 90+2′
This match was close from end to end as both teams had one last chance to get on the podium on Saturday night and threw everything into it.
A full-strength Uruguayan team took the lead when Fede Valverde’s corner fell to Rodrigo Bentacur. The Tottenham ace spun in the box and shot the ball into the top of the net, past Dayne St.
However, Canada looked better after falling behind despite six changes. A stunning scissor kick from Ismaël Koné saw the ball rise and over goalkeeper Sergio Rochet for 1-1.
Darwin Núñez was frustrated in the first half, while Facundo Pellestri’s goal was disallowed for offside. Jonathan Osorio somehow missed an open net for Canada, while Tani Oluwaseyi wasted several chances.
Marcelo Bielsa replaced Luis Suárez for Liverpool in the second half, while Jesse Marsch brought on great players Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David.
Uruguay threatened the next goal, and substitute Brian Rodriguez called on the Canadians for last-minute blocks and clearances. The Americans, however, remained competitive and confident before their first-half star returned to action.
Koné collected the ball in the middle of the field and his long-range shot forced Rochet into a diving save. A David lurking in the box put the loose ball into the corner for 2-1.
The drama continued until death! Suárez missed an open shot at the far post but then scored seconds from time on a counterattack during his final appearance for his country.
The match then went to penalties, where Uruguay prevailed after Canadian hero Koné and star Davies missed from the spot.
