Copa America: Brazil secures dominant win over Paraguay, sets up Colombia clash
Brazil’s quest for Copa America glory got a much-needed boost with a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay. This dominant performance was their first win of the tournament but also sent Paraguay packing.
Following a disappointing opening draw against Costa Rica, the pressure was on for Brazil. Coach Dorival Junior responded with a tactical tweak, bringing in Savio for Raphinha in the attack. This change proved to be a masterstroke as Brazil started the match with renewed energy.
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Early on, a penalty awarded to Brazil offered a golden opportunity to take the lead. Unfortunately, Lucas Paqueta’s spot-kick was saved, momentarily dampening the Brazilian spirits. However, the pressure on Paraguay remained relentless.
The breakthrough finally arrived through Vinicius Jr., who capitalized on a scramble in the box with a simple tap-in. This goal seemed to unlock the floodgates for Brazil. Savio quickly doubled the lead, putting Paraguay firmly on the back foot. Vinicius Jr. wasn’t done yet, adding his second goal just before halftime after a fortuitous rebound fell to his path.
The second half was an opposite story, and for a short while it looked like Paraguay will be saved. Making a comeback into the match again, Omar Alderete scores a long shot goal to cut the deficit with half the duration to go. But these expectations were short-lived as they were quickly put to an end shortly. A handball in the penalty area was a cause of another penalty to Brazil. On this occasion Paqueta took a spot-kick and scored a goal.
Even more, Paraguay was angry and became furious after producing a rough tackle by Andres Cubas leading to a red card. Thus, staying in the one man up situation, Brazil dominated the remaining time of the match and secured the victory.
With this win, Brazil gains confidence and focuses on its first victory in the group stage, a match against Colombia on July 2nd. This fixture will be a much tougher test for Brazil. Colombia has not lost a match as of yet in the current tournament, while Brazil will also want to keep on winning while also eyeing the position of the group leader.
Coach, Dorival Junior will be sitting on a number of choices when it comes to tactics. Thus, the attacking trident of Vinicius Jr., Savio, and Neymar, who did not play in this match, is fully composed, but doubts may still be the defense after the goal scored by Paraguay.
The triumph over Paraguay can be considered a breakthrough of sorts for Brazil in the current Copa America. This way it enables them to go to the Colombia clash with the needed confidence and at the same time puts them on the right footing for a Copa America title run. Nevertheless, stiffer tests are just around the corner and, to come out on top, Brazil will have to produce their very best.
