Canada Reaches Copa America Semi-Finals with Win Over Venezuela

Canada secured a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Venezuela on Friday, advancing to the Copa America semi-finals for the first time in history. The intense match ended 1-1 in regulation time, setting the stage for a nail-biting shootout.

The shootout saw both teams tied after five attempts each. Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau made a crucial save against Wilker Angel, paving the way for Ismael Kone to score the decisive penalty and propel Canada into the semi-finals.

“Emotions are running high, I’m so happy for everyone who is supporting us,” Crepeau told TSN after making two pivotal saves in the shootout. “It’s a lot of work and now we have the fruit of our hard work. This is amazing to be in the semi-finals of Copa America. I think everybody needs to realize this country and its footballers deserve respect.”

Copa America debutants Canada will face defending champions Argentina in New Jersey on Tuesday, aiming for a spot in the July 14 final. The semi-final clash will be a rematch of the tournament opener, where Argentina claimed a 2-0 victory.

Canada becomes the fourth CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals, following Mexico, Honduras, and the United States.

Canada, who had scored just one goal in their three group stage matches, started the game with remarkable urgency. Their efforts paid off in the 13th minute when Jacob Shaffelburg converted a cross from Jonathan David, giving Canada an early lead. Shaffelburg’s celebration was poignant as he held up the jersey of teammate Tajon Buchanan, who suffered a broken leg in training earlier this week.

Despite creating several scoring opportunities, Canada failed to extend their lead in the first half. Shaffelburg’s attempt from the edge of the area was saved by Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo, and David missed a one-on-one chance.

Venezuela, pressing for an equalizer, dominated possession but struggled to break down Canada’s defense. Salomon Rondon, Venezuela’s all-time leading goalscorer, forced two saves from Crepeau but couldn’t find the net.

Canada’s Cyle Larin missed a close-range shot in the 52nd minute, and Venezuela’s Jose Martinez sent a rebound over the bar two minutes later. Rondon finally equalized for Venezuela in the 64th minute with an audacious lob over Crepeau, marking his 44th goal for the national team.

Canada responded strongly to the equalizer. Substitute Liam Millar’s tight-angle effort was saved in the 67th minute, and Tani Oluwaseyi sent two shots over the bar within four minutes. However, neither side could secure a winner in regulation time, leading to the dramatic penalty shootout.

Canada’s journey to the Copa America semi-finals marks a significant milestone for the team and Canadian soccer. As they prepare to face Argentina, the North American side will be looking to build on their historic achievement and continue their impressive run in the tournament.