A superb reaction save from David Ospina helped Colombia win the penalty shoot-out ©Getty Images

Colombia's hopes of securing the Copa América Centenario title remain on course largely thanks to the efforts of goalkeeper David Ospina after a stuttering penalty shoot-out win over giant-killers Peru in East Rutherford.

The Peruvians, who had earlier stunned Brazil, proved tough opposition once again in front of a full house of 79,194 at the MetLife Stadium.

Neither side managed a shot on target in a turgid first-half, and only had one each in the second.

Play became more open in the final 15 minutes as the prospect of penalties loomed, with no extra-time being played in any round except for the final.

It was Peru who had a golden opportunity in the second minute of second-half stoppage time, only for a spectacular save from Ospina to tip Christian Ramos’ header over the crossbar.

Colombia celebrate their victory on penalties ©Getty Images
Colombia celebrate their victory on penalties ©Getty Images

Ospina, the back-up goalkeeper behind Czech Republic's Petr Cech at English Premier League team Arsenal, then excelled again in the shoot-out.

The 27-year-old stuck-out his trailing right leg to save Miguel Trauco's penalty.

Christian Cueva then skied his attempt over the crossbar to ensure a 4-2 victory.

James Rodriguez - who is married to Ospina's sister - Juan Cuadrado, Dayro Moreno and Sebastián Pérez all scored for the Colombians, who remain on course for a first Copa América title since 2001.

“We goalkeepers have the advantage that we can use any part of the body,” Ospina said afterwards.

“What matters is to stop the ball - with the ears, the nose, whatever.

"We goalkeepers have many resources.”

Colombia will now face the winners of Mexico versus Chile in the last-four stage.

Hosts United States will take on either Argentina or Venezuela in the other match.