3️⃣ things learned as Colombia survive Uruguay test in fiery semi-final

Colombia booked their date with destiny at Copa América 2024 after beating Uruguay 1-0 on Wednesday.

This is what we made of the action.

Colombia darkhorses no more

Extending an unbeaten streak to a staggering 28 games is the only statistic you need to understand just how strong this Colombia side is.

A team with quality in all positions, Néstor Lorenzo’s men have perfected their recipe and don’t look like slowing down whatsoever.

Against an impressive Uruguay team who also carried the always-heavy favourites tag into the tournament, Colombia were brave throughout the entire clash despite being a man down for the entire second 45 minutes.

Their success largely falls on the shoulders of James Rodriguez, who has taken the Copa América and made it his personal stage to strut his stuff. With his assistance, other talents have grown to shine and deliver the goods when it matters most.

It’s now a third Copa América final for Colombia who last won the tournament in 2001. The absence of Daniel Muñoz in defence will be seriously missed, but if they have shown us anything, they are the definition of teamwork.

A night to forget for Núñez

A usual poacher in front of goal in the Premier League, Darwin Núñez was unable to make a difference for Uruguay against Colombia.

The Liverpool star showed he can strike the ball beautifully, and with sizzling power, but all three of his first-half attempts failed to find the back of the net.

Unfortunately for him, none of his attacking teammates, including Federico Valverde, Facundo Pellistri or Luis Suárez, could help inspire him to produce a heroic moment.

Things then continued to turn worse after the final whistle when Núñez was caught punching Colombian fans in the stands as tempers boiled over.

The scene will frustrate both manager Marcelo Bielsa and Liverpool boss Arne Slot, surely.

International football reigns supreme

This summer of football has truly delivered for fans worldwide, and Wednesday night was a particularly brilliant showing.

A semi-final between two South American heavyweights, each with deadly attacks, magicians in midfield and commanding defensive lines pulling out all the stops.

In truth, the showing on display was worthy enough to be a final. It was an electric start right from the first while, with both teams hustling and chances keeping fans on the edge of their seat.

Goalkeepers Sergio Rochet and Camilo Vargas were kept on their toes, sometimes pushing last-ditch efforts onto the woodwork while passion poured out onto every inch of the pitch. A red card for an elbow to the chest also kept things dramatic before the scenes in the crowd afterward.

Another quality example of how international football reigns supreme. Bring on Sunday’s final!