Advertisement

Bair left on bench as Canada reach Copa America knockouts

Canada fans at Copa America
[Getty Images]

Motherwell striker Theo Bair was an unused substitute as Canada qualified for the knockout stages of the Copa America for the first time after a nervy 0-0 draw against 10-man Chile.

Chile, the two-time Copa America winners, needed to beat Canada to progress to the last eight.

But their task was made more difficult in the 28th minute when Toulouse defender Gabriel Suazo was shown a second yellow card for bringing down Richie Laryea.

Despite their numerical advantage, Canada lacked creativity in attack and instead focused on keeping a clean sheet after Argentina ended any hopes that they could finish as Group A winners.

The result means Canada, who are competing in their first ever Copa America, have qualified for the knockout stages at the first time of asking.

Chile, back-to-back winners of the tournament in 2015 and 2016, failed to qualify for the last eight for the first time in 24 years.

Canada will face the winner of Group B in their quarter-final clash on Saturday at 02:00 BST.

An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.
[BBC]