Colombia secured a 1-0 victory over Uruguay as Jefferson Lerma’s 39th-minute goal proved decisive, despite playing with ten men for the entire second half after Daniel Muñoz’s first-half red card. This win marks Colombia’s first Copa America final since their 2001 title and extends their unbeaten streak to a record 28 games, the longest active streak in men’s international soccer.
The match, marked by seven yellow cards and one red, saw contentious moments culminating in a post-game altercation involving players and fans. In front of a predominantly Colombian crowd of 70,644 at Bank of America Stadium, Lerma headed in James Rodríguez’s corner kick for the crucial goal.
Uruguay, facing their first deficit in the tournament, now prepares for a third-place playoff against Canada in Charlotte. Colombia, meanwhile, advances to face Argentina, aiming for their record 16th Copa America title in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday.
Key incidents included Muñoz’s ejection just before halftime for two yellow cards and Rodríguez’s pivotal contributions with six assists in the tournament. The game, played in sweltering 90-degree heat on converted grass turf, featured late drama as Uruguay’s late push for an equalizer included Luis Suárez hitting the post in the 71st minute.
Both teams navigated a physically demanding encounter, highlighting the intensity of South American football at its highest level.
