2024-07-14 10:49:06
SEMIFINALS
Another semi-final clash has been decided, MetLife Stadium will host the match between Argentina and Canada, but this time to determine which team will advance to the Copa América final.
Venezuela was very close to advancing and facing Argentina in East Rutherford. Salomón Rondón’s goal put them in a very even match, and that masterpiece by the Caracas native would end up being what led to the penalty shootout. The same goalkeeper who had frustrated six clear shots by the Argentine team at Mercedes-Benz Stadium – one very clear one by Messi – became the hero against Batista’s Venezuela.
Crépau’s saves from shots by Jefferson Savarino and Wilker Angel secured passage to a Canada side that displayed the same tactical traits as in Georgia throughout the 90 minutes. American Jesse Marsch proved true to his own credo: he defended high against Venezuela, making life difficult for Argentina in the 2-0 group stage defeat, even when this strategy left them vulnerable to counterattacks. Marsch looked to attack with quick transitions and long passes behind the centre-backs. What he initially attempted with Millar and Buchanan, he achieved more easily at AT&T Arlington with other players: Laryea on the right, behind Soteldo, and Shaffelburg on the left.
Shaffelburg, who scored the first goal and until his departure was the star of the match, stood out in a physical midfield that was powerful in transitions. However, Canada did not have a fine goal scorer in the finishing area, neither Larin as a center forward nor David in the role of attacking midfielder were able to accurately define the opportunities they had to extend the lead and avoid the suspense of penalties. Canada easily exposed the collective weaknesses of a Venezuela with offensive instinct. Although they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities beyond the initial 1-0, the goal was born from a fast winger who caught the Vinotinto defense off guard, culminating in a precise cross for Shaffelburg, who, paradoxically, was surrounded by defenders who did not mark him.