ARGENTINIAN striker Hernan Crespo scored two goals to inspire Argentina to a 3-1 victory over bitter rivals Brazil and guarantee them a place in the 2006 World Cup finals.

Defending champions Colombia are through to the semi-finals of the Copa America after a 2-0 win over Costa Rica.

Substitute Roberto Palacios scored four minutes from time to rescue a point for Peru in their opening Copa America Group A match against Bolivia in Lima.

Tressor Moreno’s 22nd-minute penalty enabled Colombia to scrape a 1-0 victory over Venezuela in the opening match of the Copa America in Lima, Peru.