Uruguay’s Ronald Araujo has been ruled out of the Copa America semi-final clash against Colombia.

Uruguay will be without injured central defender Ronald Araujo for Wednesday’s Copa America semi-final against Colombia, coach Marcelo Bielsa confirmed on Tuesday.

Uruguay will be missing injured central defender Ronald Araujo for the Copa America semi-final against Colombia on Wednesday, coach Marcelo Bielsa confirmed. Araujo sustained a “muscular injury” to his right thigh during Uruguay’s victory over Brazil in Las Vegas on Saturday, as reported by the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF). “We are not going to be able to count on Araujo,” Bielsa stated at a news conference at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

Atletico Madrid’s Jose Maria Gimenez replaced Ronald Araujo in the 33rd minute and is expected to start against Colombia. Uruguay will also miss right-back Nahitan Nandez, who was sent off during the match against Brazil. Coach Marcelo Bielsa has yet to decide on Nandez’s replacement, with Guillermo Varela and winger Agustin Canobbio as the main options.

Bielsa praised Colombia’s progress under coach Nestor Lorenzo, noting their 27-match unbeaten streak. “They are a big rival, on a positive run of results… Brazil was a very demanding opponent, and Colombia should be viewed the same way,” he said.

Colombia coach Lorenzo downplayed Uruguay’s defensive injuries as a decisive factor. “I don’t consider it a decisive advantage. I think they have great players to play in the same positions,” he said. Lorenzo also mentioned that Jhon Lucumi has improved significantly since his injury in Colombia’s opener against Paraguay, suggesting he might play a part in the game. Midfielder Jefferson Lerma returns after a one-match suspension, giving Lorenzo a full squad to choose from.

Colombia secured their semi-final spot by defeating Panama 5-0, equaling the country’s unbeaten run record from 1992 to 1994. “I never mention the unbeaten thing. This is about taking it one game at a time,” said Lorenzo.

In the other semi-final, Argentina and Canada will compete in New Jersey. The Copa America final is scheduled to take place in Miami on Sunday.