The Seleção youngsters will now play Mexico in Pereira on Wednesday for a place in the final, where they would face either France or Portugal to decide the 2011 Under-20 World champions.
Ney Franco’s side took the lead on 35 minutes. Philippe Coutinho smashed a thunderous strike against the bar from range, but Willian was on hand to tap in the rebound to make it 1-0.
Spain equalised on 57′ through Rodrigo. Sergio Canales crossed from the right, and Rodrigo, who spent last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, got in front of Bruno Uvini to head in past Gabriel.
After 90 minutes the score was still 1-1, and so extra-time was required. With 100 minutes on the clock, Dudu put Brazil back in front after a one-two with Henrique, but Spain went straight up the other end and drew level again through Alvaro Vazquez.
In the penalty shoot-out, Gabriel saved from Amat and Vazquez, and with Brazil having scored their first three efforts, it was left to Dudu to slot home the winning spot-kick and send the Seleção through to the last four.
