Copa América - Brazil with liberating blow against Paraguay
After the disappointing start and the goalless draw against Brazil in the Copa America, the South Americans managed to secure a victory in their second game. The Seleção celebrated a 4:1 (3:0) win against Paraguay at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. For the team coached by Dorival Junior, it was an important success to keep the group lead. Paraguay has been eliminated from the tournament after the loss.
"I told you to be patient. This team is on the right track," said the coach after the match.
Lucas Paqueta missed an early penalty (31st minute), but four minutes later, Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid scored the first goal for the Brazilians in this competition with a beautiful dribble. Savinho scored shortly before half-time (43rd minute), and Vinicius Junior scored his second goal just before the halftime whistle (45+5).
Omar Alderete scored a stunning long-range goal for Paraguay to make it 3:1 (48th minute). Paqueta converted a penalty to make it 4:1 (65th minute). Television cameras showed Neymar, the star striker who has been injured since October of last year, cheering on the bench. The Brazilians had to do without him at this tournament in the USA.
Brazil is in second place in the table, behind Colombia (6 points). The Colombians have already secured their place in the quarterfinals with a 3:0 (1:0) win over Costa Rica before their match against Brazil on Wednesday (3:00 AM CET).
Argentina, who have already qualified for the quarterfinals, will be without Lionel Messi for their last group game against Peru on Sunday night due to injury. The 37-year-old superstar was injured during Argentina's 1:0 win against Chile on his right thigh. Assistant coach Walter Samuel announced that the injury would be monitored day by day to make a decision.
- Despite the loss, Paraguay's defeat against Brazil in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium during the Copa América resulted in their elimination from the tournament.
- Ahead of their match against Brazil, USA, who are hosting the Copa América, were already assured of their place in the quarterfinals, following their 1:0 win against Chile.
- In addition to Brazil's victory over Paraguay, the Seleção also clinched a group victory, maintaining their position as a strong contender in the tournament, thanks to their impressive performances.
- The soccer tournament in the USA, Copa América, is witnessing several significant moments, including Brazil's winning group with two games left and Argentina's injury to superstar Lionel Messi, who will miss their final group game against Peru.
