CHILE KEPT THEIR Copa America title defence alive with a penalty shoot-out win over Colombia in the quarter-finals on Friday.
In what was a largely scrappy and tight encounter, two-time defending champions Chile were held to a 0-0 draw at the Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo.
Chile twice thought they had found a breakthrough, but strikes from Charles Aranguiz and Arturo Vidal were ruled out after VAR reviews.
But they delivered in the penalty shoot-out, Alexis Sanchez converting the winner to seal a 5-4 success after William Tesillo missed for Colombia.
What does it mean? Chile edge through
Chile are still on track for a remarkable third straight Copa America title. They were the better team for longer periods against Colombia and deserved their win.
Chile continue Colombia dominance
Colombia just cannot get past Chile. For the fourth time in Copa America knockout games, Chile beat Colombia, while they are undefeated in their eight clashes at neutral venues.
Not capitalising on Sao Paulo traffic
Both teams reportedly arrived later than expected at the ground due to traffic in Sao Paulo, but Chile particularly so, leading to kick-off being delayed. Perhaps because of that, Colombia looked dangerous in the opening 20 minutes without taking advantage and Chile settled into the contest from there.
What’s next?
Chile will face either Uruguay or Peru in a semi-final in Porto Alegre on Wednesday.
