Luis Suarez taunted Brazil midfielder Andreas Pereira after Uruguay reached the semi-finals of Copa America thanks to a dramatic penalty shootout win.
The two sides played out a 0-0 draw but it was Uruguay who set up a last-four tie against Colombia after Eder Militao missed from the spot. Inter Miami ace Suarez was an unused substitute but took exception to comments made by Pereira before the match.
The former Manchester United player had downplayed the opposing team's chances. "The Uruguayan national team is very good, but if you take it name by name, we have a team that they dream of having," he said.
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Pereira was quick to clarify his stance after the match, emphasizing that he didn't mean to offend. "I simply said that I preferred it and I think our players are better, so if they used that to their advantage, they can do whatever they want. But at no time did I show any disrespect towards Uruguay," he explained.
When Suarez was questioned about Pereira's remarks before the game, he clearly wasn't thrilled though, saying: "We have the best midfielders in the world, top-level players
"To talk about Uruguay, you have to have a little more respect, know the history of Uruguay. Before I say which players want to be on the Brazilian national team, I have to say that the person who made that comment was [Giorgian] De Arrascaeta's reserve [at Flamengo], who is the best player in Brazilian football," and added, "So imagine what it's like for us to hear that."
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Uruguay will take on Colombia in the semi-finals following their resounding 5-0 victory over Panama. Liverpool winger Luis Diaz was among the goalscorers while James Rodriguez also found the net from the penalty spot.
In the other last four match, holders Argentina will take on Canada after both sides won penalty shootouts. The world champions beat Ecuador 4-2 after a draw in normal time, despite Lionel Messi missing his kick.
Canada edged out Venezuela in the other quarter-final and will now look to upset the reigning champions in the semi-finals next week.
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