Uruguay's Araujo Ruled Out of Copa America Semi-Final with Thigh Injury

Uruguay's Copa America hopes have been dealt a blow with the news that central defender Ronald Araujo will miss Wednesday's semi-final against Colombia due to a thigh injury. Araujo was forced off in the first half of Uruguay's victory over Brazil on Saturday, and tests have revealed a "muscular injury" to his right thigh.

Atletico Madrid's Jose Maria Gimenez is expected to replace Araujo in the starting lineup, while Guillermo Varela or Agustin Canobbio are the likely candidates to fill in for suspended right-back Nahitan Nandez.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa expressed his disappointment at Araujo's absence but praised the progress of Colombia, who are now unbeaten in 27 matches. "They are a big rival, on a positive run of results," Bielsa said. "Brazil were a very demanding opponent and Colombia has to be viewed the same way."

Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo downplayed the significance of Uruguay's injury concerns. "I don't consider it a decisive advantage," Lorenzo said. "I think they have great players to play in the same positions."

Lorenzo also confirmed that midfielder Jefferson Lerma is available after serving a one-match suspension. Colombia beat Panama 5-0 on Saturday to reach the semi-finals and equal the country's unbeaten run record set between 1992 and 1994.

Argentina and Canada will face each other in the other semi-final on Tuesday in New Jersey. The Copa America final will be held in Miami on Sunday.

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