VIDEO Chile 2-1 Peru: Highlights, Goals; Vargas Scores Twice To Send Chile To Copa America Final

Host nation Chile advanced to the Copa America final behind two goals from Eduardo Vargas in a controversial 2-1 victory over a 10-man Peru side on Monday night at Estadio Nacional in Santiago, Chile.

Already facing an uphill battle, Peru was dealt a serious blow when defender Carlos Zambrano received a highly questionable red card in the first 20 minutes, while Chile midfielder Arturo Vidal escaped a straight red-card booking in the fifth minute.

Chile would mainly dominate from that point forward, as Vargas scored in the 42nd and 64th minute. The first goal was not a thing of beauty. Charles Aranguiz dummied a cross by Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez. The ball hit the post and Vargas, who looked to be offside, was able to score despite a poorly struck ball from short distance.

Peru would even the match in the 60th minute when Chile defender Gary Medel was charged with an own goal off a cross by Luis Advíncula.

Four minutes later, Chile would regain the lead, this time with a fine finish from Vargas. The former Queens Park Rangers forward shot from roughly 25 yards out and the ball somehow found its way into the far corner of the net and past a frustrated Pedro Gallese.

The win sends Chile to their first final since 1987 as they attempt to end a 99-year Copa America drought.

Chile will face the winner of Argentina-Paraguay, who meet on Tuesday night. The final is on Saturday in Santiago.