Colombia Punches Ticket to Copa América Final and Paris Olympics After Thrilling Shootout Victory
Colombia secured a place in the Women’s Copa América final in heart-stopping fashion, edging Argentina 5-4 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw in Monday’s semifinal. The win not only propels Las Cafeteras into the tournament’s championship match but also earns them a coveted spot at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
A Match of Margins and Missed Chances
The highly anticipated clash in the semifinal saw both teams struggle to break the deadlock in regulation time. While Argentina came out firing, testing Colombian goalkeeper Katherine Tapia early through Florencia Bonsegundo and Yamila Rodríguez, Tapia stood tall with a series of key saves to keep her side in the match.
Injuries on both sides disrupted the tempo in the first half, but Colombia gradually settled into their rhythm. Attacking threats Mayra Ramírez, Leicy Santos, and Linda Caicedo carved out scoring opportunities but couldn’t find the net as Argentina’s defense held firm.
Colombia Ramps Up the Pressure After the Break
The momentum shifted after halftime, with Colombia stepping up their attacking intent. Valerin Loboa came closest to scoring, her close-range effort seemingly bound for the net before Argentine keeper Solana Pereyra pulled off a stunning save to keep the score level.
In the dying moments of regular time, drama ensued as the tournament’s VAR system—used for the first time in this edition—was called into action. A late review for a possible penalty involving Sophia Braun and Manuela Pavi was ultimately waved off, sending the match into penalties.
Penalty Shootout Drama: Tapia the Hero
The shootout delivered all the drama fans could expect. Tapia turned savior for Colombia by denying Paulina Gramaglia’s attempt, tipping the balance in her team’s favor. However, Mayra Ramírez’s miss off the crossbar gave Argentina a second wind.
It came down to the sixth round. Wendy Bonilla coolly slotted home her penalty, putting Colombia on the brink. Eliana Stábile, tasked with keeping Argentina alive, could only watch in despair as her shot clattered off the bar—sending Colombia to the final.
“We’re in the final and we’ve qualified for the Olympics. That was our goal,” said a jubilant Tapia post-match. “Now we’re ready for the next challenge.”
What’s Next for Colombia?
Colombia now awaits the winner of the second semifinal between Brazil and Uruguay, set to take place on Tuesday. Regardless of the opponent, the team has already achieved a significant milestone by earning Olympic qualification—another step forward in their rise on the international stage.
