In a nail-biting Copa America third-place playoff, Uruguay emerged triumphant over Canada after a penalty shootout settled the 2-2 draw on Saturday.

Bentancur Opens Scoring, Canada Responds with Flair

Uruguay wasted no time taking the lead. Rodrigo Bentancur capitalized on a headed knockdown in the 8th minute, firing the ball home. Canada refused to back down, with Ismael Kone pulling off a stunning scissor kick equalizer just 14 minutes later. The momentum swung back and forth, with Uruguay having a goal disallowed for offside shortly after Kone’s wonder strike.

Late Drama Forces Shootout

Canada pressed their advantage, and Jonathan David tapped in the rebound after Dayne St. Clair parried Kone’s long-range effort in the 80th minute. Uruguay poured on the pressure in search of an equalizer, with Luis Suarez forcing a spectacular save from St. Clair moments before finding the net himself. Suarez timed his run perfectly to meet a Jose Maria Gimenez pass in the 92nd minute, sending the game to penalties with his 69th international goal.

Rochet Shines in Tense Shootout

Uruguay’s Sergio Rochet became the hero in the shootout. He denied Ismael Kone with a comfortable save and produced a stunning stop off the crossbar to thwart Alphonso Davies’ audacious panenka attempt. Uruguay converted all four of their penalties, including successful efforts from Bentancur and Suarez, to claim a 4-3 victory and the Copa America bronze medal.

Canada Exits with Heads Held High

While the defeat stings, Canada can take heart from their impressive Copa America debut. They displayed attacking flair and defensive resolve throughout the tournament. Alphonso Davies acknowledged the team’s effort, praising the penalty takers for their confidence despite the narrow loss.