Brazil’s national football team got back on track in the Copa América after beating Paraguay 4-1 on Friday with a double from Vinicius Júnior in the second match of Group D.
Brazil, which in its debut in the tournament left many doubts by drawing goalless against Costa Rica, completed the score with goals from Savinho and Lucas Paquetá, who missed a penalty kick.
The five-time world champion team registers four points in second place in the group led by Colombia, who reached six points after beating Costa Rica 3-0. The “tica” team has one point, and Paraguay, which has not added, is already eliminated.
“Vini played a practically perfect match, making great plays and very dynamic plays, being direct and involved, which is what we want from players who have individual qualities,” said technical director Dorival Júnior.
“I think everyone is well prepared, I’m sure we’ll have another challenge, but they are top-class players and we have to encourage them. These lads respect the shirt and deserve praise, I see a very loyal group and I have a lot of faith,” he added.
Brazil imposed its dominance from the start of the match played at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, but it was Paraguay that had the first chance to score in the 15th minute with a shot by Damián Bobadilla that was deflected by goalkeeper Alisson.
Brazil found the clearest scoring opportunity in the 31st minute with a penalty kick, but Paquetá sent his shot wide of the left post.
Four minutes later, Vinicius Júnior scored the first goal with a cross shot inside the area after receiving a pass from Paquetá.
Brazil came close to scoring the second goal in the 42nd minute with a powerful shot by Bruno Guimaráes that hit the crossbar.
A minute later, Savinho converted by pushing the ball into the six-yard box after a weak deflection by defender Matías Espinoza.
In first-half stoppage time, Vinicius Júnior scored his double when defender Omar Alderete deflected the ball off his right foot as he tried to clear the ball from his goal.
Paraguay scored in the 48th minute with a powerful left-footed shot by Alderete from outside the area, hitting the ball close to the left post.
Alisson prevented Paraguay’s second goal in the 51st minute when he deflected a dangerous shot from Julio Enciso.
Brazil’s fourth goal fell in the 65th minute via a penalty kick that Paquetá converted with a soft touch that fooled goalkeeper Rodrigo Morinigo, who jumped on his right side.
Paraguay finished the match with one man less due to the expulsion of Andrés Cubas, who saw the red card in the 81st minute for kicking Douglas when both players were down after challenging for the ball.
“Today I played a match that was compatible with the level of the player I am. I always say that I never play for myself, I play for the team, for Brazil, for my country. I always try to do the best things, but it’s not always possible. I know I can improve a lot and I will do it to help Brazil. We want to put Brazil in the place we deserve,” said Vinicius Júnior.
In the last match of Group D, which will be played on Tuesday, Brazil will face Colombia, and Paraguay will face Costa Rica.
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