By In a pulsating Copa America 2024 third-place match, Uruguay emerged victorious over Canada in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. The match, which ended 2-2 after regulation time, saw Uruguay win 4-3 on penalties, with Luis Suarez scoring the decisive spot-kick.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. Uruguay opened the scoring in the 8th minute through Rodrigo Bentancur, who capitalized on a corner kick situation. Canada, however, responded strongly, equalizing in the 22nd minute with a spectacular reverse kick from Ismael Kone following a corner.
The second half saw Canada take the lead in the 80th minute when Jonathan David pounced on a rebound after Sergio Rochet saved Kone’s initial attempt. Just as it seemed Canada would secure a historic third-place finish, Luis Suarez, who came on as a substitute, scored a dramatic equalizer in the 92nd minute, smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
The penalty shootout was equally thrilling. Jonathan David and Moise Bombito scored for Canada, while Federico Valverde and Rodrigo Bentancur converted for Uruguay. The turning point came when Ismael Kone’s weak attempt was saved by Rochet. Luis Suarez then stepped up to score the winning penalty after Alphonso Davies’ chipped effort hit the crossbar.
Key moments of the match included:
1. Bentancur’s opening goal for Uruguay (8′)
2. Kone’s acrobatic equalizer for Canada (22′)
3. David’s go-ahead goal for Canada (80′)
4. Suarez’s last-gasp equalizer (90+2′)
5. Rochet’s crucial save on Kone’s penalty
6. Davies’ missed penalty hitting the crossbar
The match was characterized by aggressive play from both sides, with Canada particularly impressing with their tenacity and attacking flair. Uruguay’s experience shone through in crucial moments, especially in the penalty shootout.
This result marks a successful tournament for both teams, with Uruguay securing a podium finish and Canada impressing in their first Copa America appearance. The match showcased the rising quality of Canadian soccer and reaffirmed Uruguay’s status as a South American powerhouse.
As the Copa America 2024 concludes, this third-place match will be remembered for its end-to-end action, dramatic late equalizer, and the nerve-wracking penalty shootout that decided the bronze medal winners.
