Copa América: James Rodríguez Assist Sends Colombia to Final

Néstor Lorenzo counted on former AS Monaco standout James Rodríguez, who played 62 minutes, in his starting 11 for the semifinal. On the other side, manager Marcelo Bielsa had Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who played all 90 minutes, in his starting lineup.

The Colombians recorded seven shots in the first half and opened the scoring in the 39th minute, thanks to a goal from Crystal Palace's Jefferson Lerma, assisted by Rodríguez. The 32-year-old now has six assists and one goal as his impressive tournament continues. 

Uruguay would receive a major advantage after Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz who received a red card following an elbow to Ugarte. Colombia had to play the entire second half with 10 men, but Los Cafeteros would hold onto their lead.

Despite playing with one more man and registering seven total shots in the final 45 minutes, La Celeste couldn't find the equalizing goal. Colombia now eyes their second-ever Copa América trophy when they face Argentina in the final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.

Colombia last won the competition in 2001 when they defeated Mexico on home soil in Bogotá. Argentina will look to win their second straight Copa América trophy which goes along with their FIFA World Cup that they won in 2022.

Photo credit: Buda Mendes/Getty Images

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