Uruguay triumphed over Brazil 4-2 in a penalty shootout on Saturday after a grueling 0-0 draw, securing a spot in the Copa América semifinals where they will clash with Colombia.
Sergio Rochet denied Brazil’s first penalty from Éder Militão, and Douglas Luiz hit the post, giving Uruguay an early advantage.
Despite Alisson Becker saving José María Giménez’s attempt and Gabriel Martinelli keeping Brazil in contention, Manuel Ugarte sealed Uruguay’s victory with a decisive spot kick.
Vinícius Júnior’s absence due to suspension left a void for Brazil, who struggled to break through despite a numerical advantage late in the match after Uruguay’s Nahitan Nández was sent off.
“It was a tense match against a tough opponent, especially playing with ten men in the closing stages. But we showed character despite our youth,” remarked Rochet.
“We’re thrilled with this win, which the team and the country truly deserve. We’re hungry for more,” he added.
The game, marked by 41 fouls, saw physical battles across the pitch, with Uruguay’s high press limiting space for Brazil’s young forward Endrick, 17, who endured several rough challenges.
One contentious moment involved Ronald Araújo pushing Endrick, leading to a confrontation with Raphinha, though the referee managed to defuse tensions without issuing cards.
Araújo’s night was cut short by injury in the first half-hour, coinciding with Darwin Núñez missing a close-range header for Uruguay. In a quick counter, Raphinha’s shot was saved by Rochet, Brazil’s best chance of the half.
Despite Marcelo Bielsa making three substitutions by the 67th minute, Uruguay’s plans were disrupted when Nández received a red card following a VAR review for a tackle on Rodrygo.
Nández’s challenge, deemed reckless, briefly halted play as Rodrygo recovered from the impact, continuing without serious injury.
However, Brazil couldn’t capitalize on their numerical advantage as Uruguay defended resolutely, opting for penalties in the absence of extra time in Copa América’s knockout stages.
For Brazil, this marks another penalty shootout exit in a major tournament after their 2022 World Cup defeat to Croatia.
“We aim to elevate Brazil’s status, and we’ll keep preparing for the World Cup qualifiers,” reflected Endrick. “It’s a tough moment, but we hope for the support of all Brazilians.”
Uruguay’s victory over Brazil was their first in 13 encounters since 2001, marking a significant milestone under esteemed coach Marcelo Bielsa, who has now secured consecutive wins against Brazil for the first time since 1992.
