The Canadian national team is in the semifinals of the 2024 COPA America. Canada’s place in the last four of this elite American soccer tournament is significant considering that this is the first time Canada has ever participated in it.
On Friday, Canada defeated Venezuela 4-3 on penalties in the quarterfinals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, after playing just over 90 minutes of regulation time and trailing 1-0. Keep in mind that the COPA America goes straight to penalty kicks, unlike the European Championship, where there is half an hour of extra time if the game is tied after regulation time.
Canada’s regular-time goalscorer was Jacob Shaffelburg of Kentville, Nova Scotia. The winger, who plays for Nashville SC in Major League Soccer, used his tremendous speed and great passing skills to create several scoring opportunities for Canada in the first half. Shaffelburg’s goal came in the 13th minute. Canada had led 1-0 against Venezuela. Canada defended that lead for 52 minutes before Venezuela equalized in the 65th minute.
In the shootout, Maxime Crepeau of Greenfield Park, Quebec, saved two great shots. The four Canadian scorers were forward Jonathan David of Ottawa, Ontario, defender Moise Bombito of Montreal, Quebec, left back Alphonso Davies of Edmonton, Alberta, and midfielder Ismael Kone of Montreal.
Canada will next face Argentina in the semifinals in New Jersey on Tuesday. Argentina beat Ecuador 4-2 on penalties in Houston on Thursday after a 1-1 draw. The other quarterfinals will take place on Saturday, when Colombia faces Panama in Glendale, Arizona, and Uruguay faces Brazil in Vegas.
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