Honduras, a late replacement for Argentina, have made it to the semi-finals of the Copa America after a stunning 2-0 victory over holders Brazil. Brazil have suffered a slump in form of late and this was compounded by their comprehensive defeat to their less illustrious opponents in Colombia yesterday. An own goal by midfielder Belletti and an injury-time strike from Saul Martinez set up Honduras for their shock victory and earns them a place against the host country in the last four of the competition.
Despite the fact that many countries, including Brazil, have not brought their strongest squads to the devalued tournament, this result is likely to go down in Honduras' footballing history as one of their highest points alongside their sole appearance in the World Cup back in 1982.
Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari held up his hands last night following the defeat and took the blame for his side's latest embarrassment. "I, Big Phil, will go down in history as the Brazil coach who lost to Honduras. It's horrible. But Honduras played better, they deserved their win," he said. "We played well below our capabilities," added Brazilian striker Guilherme.
Meanwhile, Colombia beat Peru 3-0 to earn their place in the semis. Their three goals all arrived in the second-half of the match courtesy of two strikes from Victor Hugo Aristizabal and one from Giovany Hernandez.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
