Peru writes a fairytale, facing Brazil in the 2019 Copa America final.
(Baonghean.vn) - For the first time in 44 years, Peru reached the Copa America final after a historic victory against defending champions Chile.
Chile are the reigning Copa America champions on the last two occasions. Possessing a host of top stars, Chile entered the semi-final against Peru with unquestionable superiority. However, perhaps due to underestimating their weaker opponent, they suffered a bitter defeat.
Peru played with great discipline and sharpness. The team considered the underdog completely neutralized all of the defending champions' attacking options. And once the defense had figured out how to stop Chile's strikers, the attack refused to be outdone and started firing.
Halfway through the first half, Peru were the dominant team. In a counter-attack, following a cross from the left wing, Flores quietly slipped past the far post and unleashed a superb volley that found the back of the net, opening the scoring against Chile.
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| Peru had their best game at the Copa America. |
Preoccupied with attacking, Chile's goalkeeper Arias strayed far from his goal, allowing Carrillo to get past him and cross the ball into the box. Yotun controlled the ball neatly with his chest and finished with his left foot into the empty net, increasing Chile's lead to 2-0. That was also the final score of the first half.
Forced to go on the offensive, Chile's defense became vulnerable, constantly having to fend off lightning-fast counter-attacks from Peru. Unfortunately, Peru's opportunities were all wasted until the fifth minute of added time.
From a clever through pass by Yotun, Paolo Guerrero broke free, easily beating goalkeeper Arias to seal a 3-0 victory for Peru. This effectively marked the end for the reigning champions of South America's premier tournament.
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| After crushing Chile 3-0, Peru confidently advanced to the final to challenge host nation Brazil. |
Peru's unexpected victory was truly the biggest shock of the Copa America, their performance reminiscent of Greece's performance at EURO 2004. If Peru overcomes host nation Brazil in the final, it will undoubtedly be one of the most spectacular achievements in Peruvian football history.
Starting lineup:
Chile:Arias, Isla, Medel, Maripan, Beausejour, Aranguiz, Pulgar, Vidal, Fuenzalida, Vargas, Sanchez
Peru:Gallese, Advincula, Zambrano, Abram, Trauco, Yotun, Tapia, Carrillo, Cueva, Flores, Guerrero
Goal:
Peru:Flores 21', Yotun 38', Paolo Guerrero 90+1'
