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LIMA, July 22 (AFP): Brazil, without their World Cup stars, proved their mettle in a penalty shoot-out against Uruguay in Wednesday's semi-final to reach the Copa America final against Argentina.
Marcelo Sosa headed in Javier Delgado's free kick to give Uruguay a deserved lead on 22 minutes but they missed a handful of chances before Adriano equalised for Brazil immediately after half-time.
Brazil, who had not lost a penalty shoot-out since the 1995 Copa America final they lost by the same 5-3 result to Uruguay, converted all five of their penalties, with goalkeeper Julio Cesar's save from Vicente Sanchez proving decisive, leaving Alex to slot the decider past Viera.
Uruguay were left to rue their missed chances.
Dario Silva missed two sitters. First he was given a clear run on goal but shot straight at Julio Cesar and then he blazed onto the cross-bar from in front of an open goal.
Julio Cesar then turned away Delgado's swerving free kick and Brazil began to find their way back in the game.
Uruguay goalkeeper Sebastian Viera knocked over Kleberson's drive and then got a hand to an Edu chip in injury time.
Brazil were transformed after the break and Alex set Luis Fabiano free on the right for a low shot which was turned in from close range by Adriano.
Adriano went close with another two shots before Luis Fabiano went desperately close to clinching victory near the end.
Argentina, who swept aside defending champions Colombia 3-0 in the other semi-final, should prove tougher opponents in Sunday's final.
Meanwhile, Argentina forward Cristian Gonzalez is delighted to be in the Copa America final and hopes
that their performances have finally won back public confidence in the team.
Argentina are still suffering the effects of their dismal performance at the last World Cup when they arrived as favourites and were knocked out in the first round.
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