Copa America Tourney Sees a Reversal of Roles

La Plata, Argentina, Jul 18. -The 43rd Copa America soccer tournament, now in semifinals, is seeing a real reversal of roles, as traditionally strong teams lose prominence.The change is so significant compared to the last tournament, held in 2007 in Venezuela, that none of the teams that made the medals table that year have come close.

Brazil, eight-time winner of the tournament and defending champion, was disqualified on Sunday in the quarterfinals after being defeated 2-0 by Paraguay in penalties.

Brazil won its last regional title four years ago against Argentina, which was also disqualified in this year's quarterfinals by Uruguay 5-4 in penalties.

Along with Paraguay and Uruguay, Venezuela and Peru also qualified for the semifinals.

Venezuela on Sunday made history at Bicentenario Stadium in the western city of San Juan, by defeating Chile 2-1 and reaching the semifinals for the first time.

Peru defeated Colombia 2-0, even though Colombia had been playing well until then.

The semifinals begin Tuesday with Uruguay playing Peru at Unico Stadium in this city, while Venezuela will play Paraguay on Wednesday in the city of Mendoza. (Prensa Latina)