Copa America final: Colombia beats Uruguay 1-0

The Copa America final between Colombia and Uruguay was a highly anticipated match that showcased the talents of both teams. In a tightly contested game, Colombia emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over Uruguay. The match was filled with intense moments and strategic plays from both sides.

Colombia's victory can be attributed to their strong defensive performance and effective counterattacks. They were able to capitalize on their opportunities and secure the crucial goal that ultimately led them to victory. Their teamwork and determination were evident throughout the game, as they worked together to outplay their opponents.

Uruguay defender José María Giménez said some Colombian fans had become aggressive in the stands toward Uruguay team family members, some holding small children, after the match.

“This is a disaster, our family was in danger,” Giménez said. “We had to get into the stands to get our loved ones out, with small newborn babies. There was not a single police officer … and we were there standing up for our own.”

With the win, Colombia advances to its first Copa América final and its second ever since winning the championship in 2001. There, it will face a stiff task against Lionel Messi and reigning World Cup champion Argentina, which cruised through its half of the field while allowing a single goal in five games.

Colombia and Argentina will face off Sunday night (8 p.m. ET, Fox/Univision) in Miami

Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez failed to take advantage of multiple first-half opportunities, with Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas not having to make his first save until he stopped Nicolás de la Cruz's attempt in the 68th minute.

Substitute Luis Suárez, Uruguay's career leader with 68 goals, hit the outside of a post with a shot in the 71st as Uruguay struggled to find a breakthrough against the 10 men.

Colombia's Mateus Uribe, another second-half sub, put an open shot wide in the 88th, and Uribe's open shot in the fourth minute of stoppage time ricocheted off the body of sliding goalkeeper Sergio Rochet then the crossbar.

Colombia’s Mateus Uribe, another second-half sub, put an open shot wide in the 88th, and Uribe’s open shot in the fourth minute of stoppage time ricocheted off the body of sliding goalkeeper Sergio Rochet and then the crossbar.

Uruguay moved Rochet up the field in the final minute, desparate for a goal.

The match was played in 90-degree heat on a surface that was converted from artificial turf to grass in the weeks leading up the game.

Players on the NFL’s Carolina Panthers have been outspoken about soccer teams having the luxury of playing on grass on their home field. NFL games at venue are played on artificial turf, which players say leaves them more susceptible to injuries.

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Sarah H

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