After the goalless draw against Costa Rica at the start of the Copa América, Brazil achieved a clear victory in its second match against Paraguay.
At the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the Brazilians beat Paraguay 4-1 (3-0). For coach Dorival Júnior’s team, it was an important victory to keep the group victory in their hands. Paraguay was eliminated from the tournament after the defeat. Colombia had already secured its place in the quarter-finals with a 3-0 (1-0) win against Costa Rica.
Lucas Paquetá initially missed a penalty (31st minute), before four minutes later Vinicius Júnior of Real Madrid scored the Brazilians’ first goal in this competition after a beautiful dribble. Savinho followed shortly afterwards (43rd minute), before Vinicius Junior scored his second goal shortly before the half-time whistle.
Paqueta scores from the penalty spot
Paraguay started well after the restart, Omar Alderete reduced the deficit to 3-1 with a great long-range shot. After a handball, the Seleção were awarded another penalty and Paquetá stepped up again, aimed for the same corner and scored to make it 4-1. Television cameras showed star striker Neymar celebrating in the stands. He has been injured since October last year and the Brazilians will have to do without him for this tournament in the USA.
With four points, Brazil is behind Colombia (6) in the table. The club has the group victory in its own hands with another win in the third match of the group phase on Wednesday (3 a.m. CEST). Paraguay will face Costa Rica at the same time.
