Copa America 2011 Schedule: 3 Keys to Uruguay Win vs Peru

The much anticipated 2011 Copa America semi-final matchup between Uruguay and Peru will kick off tonight at 8:45 ET at La Plata.

The winner of this match wins the right to represent their country in the Copa America 2011 finals to match up with the winner of Paraguay and Venezuela, who match up on Wednesday, July 20th.

The Copa America is the premier tournament in South America, and is well known for some of the best matchups and soccer in the world.

To say that Uruguay is a favorite in this match is somewhat of an understatement. Peru barely made it out of groups stages and they seem to be the overmatched team. That being said, they did beat out the favored Colombian team, so anything is possible.

I personally don’t think Uruguay will be able to pull it off. I’ve actually made a prediction that Peru will win 3-2 in extra time.

There is no denying that Uruguay is the favorite, though.

In my opinion, if Uruguay plans on winning this match and advancing to the finals they will have to do these three specific things.

Here are the three keys to a Uruguay win against Peru.

1. Luis Suarez Must Continue to Play Well

Edinson Cavini is once again out of the match due to injury. Luis Suarez has been the main man filling in for him, and to this point, he has done an admirable job. He is big and strong, which makes it very hard for defenders to cover him. He is a free kick machine, but I also feel he needs to score if Uruguay wants to win.

2. Uruguay Must Control the Momentum

I can all but guarantee you that Peru is going to come out of the gates swinging. The first half of the match is going to be key for Peru. They are underdogs, but are also coming off a big upset win, so carrying that momentum over is going to be a big point of emphasis for them. If Uruguay can weather the storm early on and control the surge they should be fine.

3. Uruguay Must Have a Killer Instinct

Uruguay is searching for their record 15th Copa America crown, which means they know what it takes to win. They are the favorites and the better team, and they need to go out on the pitch and play as if they believe that. Peru can’t find a glimmer of hope, because if they do they might just be able to pull the rug out for a second straight match.

Remaining Copa America 2011 Schedule:

Semifinals

Semifinal No. 1: Peru vs. Uruguay: Tuesday, July 19th, 8:45 PM

Semifinal No. 2: Paraguay vs. Venezuela: Wednesday, July 20th, 8:45 PM                    

Finals

Winner Semifinal No. 1 vs. Winner Semifinal No. 2: Sunday, July 24th, 3:00 PM

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Follow Andrew on Twitter: @AKonSports