Cuadrado reach last four of the Copa America

Juan Cuadrado was among those to convert in the penalty shoot-out as Colombia beat Peru this morning (Saturday) to reach the last four of the Copa America.

The foul count far exceeded the tally of shots attempted in this quarter-final match played at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, despite Cuadrado's best efforts to help his side break down a defence which had shut out Willian's Brazil in the group stage.

Twice the winger may have expected his industrious wing play to be rewarded with an assist, but on both occasions the dogged Peruvian rearguard did well to prevent James Rodriguez and Carlos Bacca from scoring.

Extra-time isn't used in the Copa America until the final, which meant the full-time whistle brought with it a penalty shoot-out. Cuadrado confidently converted Colombia's second spot-kick, side-footing the ball into the bottom right-hand to send the keeper the wrong way.

That made the score 2-1 to Colombia and after both sides successfully converted again, Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina twice kept out Peru penalties to send his side through.

It is the first time Colombia have reached the last four of the Copa America since 2004 and they will face either Mexico or Chile. They last lifted the trophy 15 years ago on home soil.