In an exhilarating third-place playoff at the 2024 Copa América, Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay edged past Canada 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a gripping 2-2 draw in Charlotte. Here are five key talking points from the match:
1. Early Uruguay Dominance:
Uruguay, known for their attacking prowess, wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Within the first 10 minutes, Rodrigo Bentancur capitalized on a headed assist from José María Giménez, blasting a powerful shot into the roof of the net. This early goal set the tone for an intense and competitive match.
2. Canada's Resilience and Spectacular Equalizer:
Canada, the last North American team in the tournament, showcased their fighting spirit by equalizing midway through the first half. Ismaël Koné delivered a stunning acrobatic finish, converting a pass from Moise Bambito. His goal was reminiscent of Zlatan Ibrahimović's iconic strikes.
3. VAR Drama and Defensive Heroics:
The match wasn't without controversy. Uruguay thought they had regained the lead when Facundo Pellestri found the net, only for VAR to intervene and disallow the goal. Moments later, Canada nearly went ahead, but Jonathan Osorio's shot was dramatically cleared off the line by Nahitan Nández, showcasing the high stakes and defensive heroics on both sides.
4. Jonathan David's Milestone Goal:
As the game approached its climax, Canada's Jonathan David scored his 28th international goal, giving the Canucks a crucial lead.
5. Suárez's Last-Minute Heroics and Penalty Shootout Drama:
In stoppage time, substitute Luis Suárez emerged as Uruguay's savior, netting a poacher's goal to level the score and force a penalty shootout. The shootout was a nail-biter, with both teams converting their first two spot-kicks. However, the pressure proved too much for Canada, with Ismaël Koné and Alphonso Davies missing their penalties, securing a record 10th Copa América bronze medal for Uruguay.