Canada Advances to Copa America Semi-Finals After Penalty Shootout Win Over Venezuela
Copa America newcomers Canada have made it to the semi-finals for the first time, setting up a thrilling match against Argentina in New Jersey on Tuesday. This will be a rematch of the tournament's opener, where Argentina, the defending champions, won 2-0. Canada has now joined the ranks of other CONCACAF teams such as Mexico, Honduras, and the United States in reaching the semi-finals of this prestigious tournament.
Canada secured their spot in the semi-finals by winning a dramatic penalty shootout 4-3 against Venezuela on Friday after the match ended 1-1 in regular time. The game was intensely competitive, with both teams showing determination and skill.
The penalty shootout saw Wilker Angel's shot saved by Canada's Maxime Crepeau, who was instrumental in the victory with two crucial saves. Ismael Kone then stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sending Canada through to the next round.
"I'm overwhelmed with joy for everyone supporting us," Crepeau told Canadian broadcaster TSN. "We've worked so hard to get here, and it's incredible to be in the semi-finals of Copa America. This achievement shows that Canadian football deserves respect."
Canada started the match with a rare intensity, which paid off early when Jacob Shaffelburg scored in the 13th minute, converting a cross from Jonathan David. After the goal, Shaffelburg held up the jersey of his teammate Tajon Buchanan, who had suffered a broken leg in training.
Despite several missed opportunities to extend their lead, including attempts from Shaffelburg and David, Canada couldn't capitalize further in the first half. Venezuela, on the other hand, had more possession but struggled to create clear chances, with Salomon Rondon twice testing Crepeau from long range.
In the second half, Canada’s Cyle Larin missed a close-range shot, and Venezuela's Jose Martinez also failed to score from a rebound. Venezuela eventually equalized in the 64th minute through Rondon, who lobbed the ball over Crepeau for his 44th goal for his country.
Canada responded well to the equalizer, with substitute Liam Millar having a shot saved and Tani Oluwaseyi missing two opportunities. Despite their efforts, neither team could find a winner, leading to the decisive penalty shootout.
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