Oh Canada is in the semi-final of Copa Americaafter winning the Venezuelathis Friday, on penalties, 4-3, after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, in Dallas. The Canadians are facing the ArgentiniansTuesday, 9 p.m., in New Jersey.

The first half was a tense affair. With physically strong players, Canada had the initiative in attack and relied on long throws.

Venezuela, confident in the three victories achieved in the group stage, had as their main weapons the speed of Soteldo on the field and the opportunism of Rondón.

The first big chance was Canadian. In the 11th minute, defender Aramburu saved twice almost on the line, after goalkeeper Romo was ruled out of the shot.

But Canada’s goal didn’t take long to come. In the 12th minute, Jonathan David broke away on the right and crossed to Shaffelburg, who anticipated the marking to open the scoring.

Venezuela did not let themselves be intimidated and had two chances with the top scorer Rondón. But it was Canada who almost scored again, in the 25th minute, when Jonathan David, in a quick counterattack, missed a good opportunity in front of Romo.

The match remained open, with both teams taking turns attacking, but the biggest chance came once again from the Canadians, with Laryea, in the 30th minute.

The teams’ enthusiasm continued in the second leg. The difference was that Venezuela launched an attack. Both teams had good chances to score.

At six minutes, the Canadian Larin, free, shot over. At 12, it was the turn of the Venezuelan Eduard Bello to almost equalize. The goalkeeper made a good save and sent it for a corner.

Venezuela’s equalizer came in the 18th minute with a superb goal from Rondón almost from midfield. Canada was not intimidated and almost won in normal time. But the fight for a spot in the semifinals went to a penalty shootout and Canada won 4-3.