Colombia, Uruguay clash in Copa semi-final with records in sight

Uruguay and Colombia will both be pursuing significant achievements when they clash in the Copa America semi-final in Charlotte, North Carolina on Wednesday.

Colombia comes into the semi-final with an impressive streak of 27 games without defeat, matching their longest unbeaten run in history. Meanwhile, Uruguay aims to secure an unprecedented 16th Copa America title, currently sharing the record of 15 titles with Argentina, who are facing Canada in the other semi-final.

Uruguay advanced to the semi-finals after a penalty shootout victory over Brazil, despite committing the highest number of fouls in the tournament (26) and receiving a red card for Nahitan Nandez’s foul on Rodrygo. Manager Marcelo Bielsa emphasized his team’s commitment to their attacking style, stating they won’t compromise their approach.

Nandez will miss the match due to suspension, and defender Ronald Araujo is out for the tournament due to a leg injury suffered in the quarter-final.

Colombia, fresh off a commanding 5-0 quarter-final win against Panama, aims to reach their first Copa final in 23 years. Managed by Nestor Lorenzo, Colombia has seen eight different players score in the tournament. James Rodriguez has been pivotal with five assists, matching Lionel Messi’s record since assists were first recorded in 2011.

Lorenzo expressed confidence in his team’s ability, describing the match against Uruguay as deserving of a final. The final of the Copa America will take place on Sunday in Miami Gardens, Florida.