Colombia beats Peru 4-2 on PKs to reach Copa America semis

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – David Ospina made an outstanding flying kick save in a shootout, Christian Cueva sent Peru’s final attempt over the crossbar and Colombia reached the Copa America semifinals for the first time since 2004 with a 4-2 victory on penalty kicks after a 0-0 tie Friday night.

James Rodriguez, Juan Cuadrado and Dayro Moreno converted the first three penalty kicks for Colombia, beating goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, and Raul Ruidiaz, Renato Tapia made the first two for Peru. Hoping to stay even after three rounds, Miguel Trauco sent a kick down the middle as Ospina dived to his left and raised his trailing right leg to kick the ball away.

Sabastian Perez converted Colombia’s fourth kick, and Cueva skied his over the crossbar. Colombian players ran out to celebrate, Cueva put his hands over his face, and Ospina walked over the Cueva to console the 24-year-old midfielder.

Colombia plays Wednesday in Chicago against the winner of Saturday night’s game between Mexico and defending champion Chile. The United States faces Argentina or Venezuela at Houston on Tuesday in the first semifinal.