Brazil Out, Uruguay Triumph on Penalties in Copa America 2024

By The Midtown Times

Updated Sun Jun 27, 2024 10:17 AM EDT | Photo Credits: cbf.org.br

Uruguay Ended Brazilians' Dream

Physical Battle Ends in Stalemate

Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay displayed resilience and tactical discipline, managing to edge past Brazil 4-2 on penalties. The match, characterized by physicality and tactical fouls, saw 41 infringements and just four shots on target. The defining moment came in the 74th minute when Uruguay’s Nahitan Nández was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Brazil’s Rodrygo after a VAR review, leaving Uruguay with ten men.

Uruguay's Penalty Precision

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Uruguay held firm. The penalty shootout began with Federico Valverde scoring for Uruguay, followed by Éder Militão’s missed effort for Brazil, saved by Uruguay’s goalkeeper Sergio Rochet. The pressure mounted as Douglas Luiz hit the post, and although Brazil’s keeper Alisson Becker saved a shot from José María Giménez, Manuel Ugarte’s decisive penalty sealed Uruguay’s victory and secured their place in the semifinals.

Resilience Shines Through

“It was a tough match against a strong opponent, especially with ten men towards the end. But we showed character,” Rochet said post-game. “Winning on penalties was a testament to our resilience. This group deserves happiness, and so does our country. We are excited and aiming for more.”

Young Talent Falls Short

Brazil’s squad featured promising young talent, including 17-year-old Endrick, who despite his efforts, could not lead Brazil to the next round. “We aim to bring Brazil back to the top,” Endrick said. “We will continue to work and prepare for the World Cup qualifiers. This is a tough moment, but we hope for the support of all Brazilians.”

Tactical Masterclass

The match was a test of endurance and strategy, with Bielsa’s distinctive coaching style evident throughout. His players pressed relentlessly, often in groups, making it difficult for Brazil to find any rhythm. The Selecao struggled to build coherent attacks and resorted to long balls, which were easily intercepted by Uruguay’s defense.

Enduring the Pressure

Uruguay’s intensity waned slightly in the second half, but Brazil failed to capitalize, even with a one-man advantage. This lack of fluency has been a recurring issue for Brazil throughout the tournament. Coach Dorival Junior, who took charge in March, acknowledged the team’s need for improvement but also noted the defensive solidity they displayed.

High Expectations, Tough Realities

Brazil’s expectations are always high, and the loss on penalties to Uruguay, though hard-fought, is a disappointment. The young team, still finding its feet under Dorival, faced a formidable opponent in Uruguay, known for their ‘garra charrua,’ a term reflecting their indomitable spirit and aggressive play style.

Endrick’s Battle

Endrick, despite being fouled multiple times, showed resilience and continued to battle throughout the match. The physical nature of the game, combined with Uruguay’s relentless pressing, left little room for creative play.

A Costly Red Card

Nández’s red card, a result of a dangerous challenge, epitomized Uruguay’s aggressive approach. Despite his dismissal, Uruguay’s defensive resilience saw them through to the semifinals, although they now face the challenge of playing without Nández and possibly Ronald Araujo, who left the field with an injury.

Looking Ahead

In the end, Bielsa’s tactical acumen and Uruguay’s collective spirit triumphed, leaving Brazil to regroup and focus on future competitions. The victory is a significant milestone for Uruguay, and they now look forward to their semifinal clash against Colombia.