Match 26 - Venezuela 1-1 Canada
In a slightly belated Canada Day present to the nation the men's national team reached their first every semi-final of a major tournament by defeating the match favourites on penalties.
Canada took the lead on 13 minutes and, despite being slightly behind on possession stats and almost level on shot stats, produced seven shots on target to Venezuela's three. Getting back on terms, in the 64th minute, required an audacious lob from Jose Rondón. Canada could, possibly should, have retaken the lead only a few minutes later but the lack of finishing prowess which has seen them score only two goals in their four games suggests there is still work for Jesse Marsche to do with the team. He needs to get on it, the Semi-Final is against Argentina - who defeated them 2-0 in the opening match of the tournament.
The reason for the meeting, with the game finishing at 1-1, Canada won the penalty shootout 4-3. Yangel Herrera hit the post with the teams at 1-1 and when Liam Miller shot high on the next go, it was still 1-1. Savarino and Eustaquio both had shots saved to keep things level at 2-2. When Ángel had his strike saved all the pressure was on Canada's Koné, who scored in the bottom left corner to the delight of Canadian's everywhere.
For Venezuela, one of two teams to never win the Copa America (or play in the World Cup Finals) attention turns to their remaining qualifiers and a hopeful return to North America in two years time.
| Match Number | Teams | 1st Half Score | 2nd Half Score | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | Venezuela v Canada | 0-1 | 1-0 | 1-1 |
| Total Matchday Goals | 1 | 1 | 2 | |
| Total Tournament Goals | 23 | 34 | 57 |
Tomorrows Quarter-Final matches are:
| Team A | Team B | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Colombia | Panama | Glendale, AZ |
| Uruguay | Brazil | Las Vegas, NV |
text by stuartcturnbull art by CONMEBOL & altered by stuartcturnbull