Chile’s dream of a Copa three-peat has been dashed by Peru, who upset the reigning champions 3-1 to advance to the final for the first time since 1975.
Two first half goals allowed Peru to dream before captain Paolo Guerrero sealed the win with a stoppage time goal, eliminating Chile from a tournament they had dominated in recent editions.
Peru found the lead in the 19th minute after Edison Flores smashed home a Christian Cueva delivery to the back post.
They would then be awarded a second in the 38th minute courtesy of a Gabriel Arias brain fade.
The Chilean keeper stormed off his line to retrieve the ball on the outer wing but Peru’s Andre Carillo got there first and crossed the ball into Yoshimar Yotun who slotted in Peru’s second into the open net.
Despite holding a comfortable lead heading out after half time, the Peruvians were anything but. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was by far Peru’s best on ground in the second half, making several match winning saves as Chile peppered the goal.
The 2015 & 16 Champions came close to scoring on many occasions – looking most dangerous from set pieces.
Arturo Vidal did his best to galvinise his side with several attempts from distance – which would have made highlight reels all over the world had he scored, instead those reels will be dominated by Gallese and his many saves.
Chile’s best opportunity came Eduardo Vargas broke through only to be denied by Gallese who had charged off his line to meet the Chilean striker and smother his chance.
As the fourth official held up five minutes on his board, Chile’s desperation exacerbated as they threw men forward in a last ditch attempt to score.
Albeit Peru kept their composure and in doing so were a rewarded with a goal themselves as Guerrero dribbled past Chilean goalkeeper Arias to score the easiest of goals.
With the score at 3-0 deep into stoppage time, Chile were awarded a penalty after intervention from the Video Assistant Referee.
But Gallese would not be beaten as Vargas’ panenka did not fool the 29-year-old, who held his ground and rejoiced with his teammates.
The failed panenka summing up Chile’s night as they failed to convert, despite an abundance of opportunities.
Peru has not won the tournament since 1975 and will the chance to win it for the third time when they meet Brazil at the Maracana.
