Jefferson Lerma’s decisive goal in the 39th minute propelled Colombia to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Uruguay in their Copa America semifinal clash on Wednesday night in Charlotte, N.C.
This result means Colombia achieved a historic milestone by extending their unbeaten streak to a team record 28 games, surpassing their previous best from 1992-1994.
This streak stands as the longest current unbeaten run in men’s football.
Despite playing a man down for the entire second half following Daniel Muñoz’s first-half expulsion, Colombia managed to secure their spot in the final.
This marks their first final appearance since claiming their sole Copa America title as hosts in 2001.
The match was intense and controversial, marked by seven yellow cards and a red, with players from both sides involved in confrontations both on the field and with fans after the final whistle.
Colombia, backed by a predominantly pro-Colombia crowd adorned in yellow jerseys and flags at Bank of America Stadium, dictated the tempo early on.
James Rodríguez’s precise corner kick found Jefferson Lerma, who soared above José María Giménez to head home his third international goal and second of the tournament.
Rodríguez, who has been instrumental with six assists in the tournament, triple the tally of any other player, played a pivotal role once again.
Muñoz’s sending off just before halftime, due to a second yellow card for elbowing Manuel Ugarte, added to Colombia’s challenges.
Despite Uruguay’s efforts, including Luis Suárez hitting the post with a shot in the 71st minute after coming on as a substitute, Colombia held firm defensively.
In the final moments, Colombia had chances to extend their lead through Mateus Uribe, whose efforts were denied by the crossbar and goalkeeper Sergio Rochet.
Colombia’s goalkeeper Federico Valverde, relatively untested until late in the game, made a crucial save to preserve the clean sheet.
The stage is now set for a thrilling Copa America final showdown between defending champions Argentina and Colombia in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday night.
Argentina, aiming for a record 16th Copa America title and looking to match Spain’s feat of winning three consecutive major titles, will face a resolute Colombian side eager to lift the trophy once again.
