Chile has won through to the semi-final of the Copa America thanks to a 1-0 win over a nine man Uruguay.

Mauricio Isla scored the only goal of the match in the 84th minute to to put Uruguay within reach of winning the tournament.

Uruguay defenders Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez were brilliant in defence, holding up attack after attack, before the match took a turn just after the hour mark.

Star Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani received his marching orders after a second yellow in the 63rd minute for appearing to slap Gonzalo Jara in the face.

However, footage showed that Cavani's slap was little more than a feather to Jara's face, yet the Chilean ensured he made the most of it, falling to the ground clutching his face several seconds later.

Chile then took full advantage of the extra man, scoring soon after.

The match then became even more physical late in the game, as Uruguay defender Jorge Fucile received a second yellow for a harsh challenge, before sparking an all in melee, which caused play to be stopped for several minutes.

Uruguay players and officials also stormed the pitch to remonstrate with officials in ugly and embarrassing scenes for Uruguay football.

The tussle is yet another ugly scene in this year's Copa America, which has seen several physical encounters between opposition players.

Chile will face either Peru or Bolivia in the semi-final.

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