Brazil nervy in Copa America triumph

08/07/19 2854

Brazil won the Copa America on Sunday night by recording a 3-1 win over Peru at the Maracana.

However, the result was not as comfortable as it seemed, as the Selecao looked nervous at times after the dismissal of Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus in the second half.

For a period of the second half, Tite’s looked to be hanging on slightly before the introduction of Everton’s Richarlison.

The youngster came on to hold the ball up and did an exceptional job, as the Incas struggled to get out of their half for the final 15 minutes of the game. The former Fluminense star then sealed the victory with a late penalty kick after another VAR reviewed and awarded penalty kick.

In truth, Brazil rather ground this victory out. It was less flair and more nerve that helped end their 12-year wait for a victory in the Copa.

Peru were stubborn opponents, just as they were against the likes of Uruguay and Chile earlier in the competition. They were certainly not going to suffer defeat easily and really made a game off it.

Boss Ricardo Gareca attempted similar substitutions as in recent matches in the second half to get his team back in it at 2-1. However, his changes failed to yield any positive results, as Tite outthought the Argentinian.

Brazil’s top players have not always been at their best during Copa America 2019. However, the Selecao have seen some key performances from the likes of Jesus, Roberto Firmino and of course Philippe Coutinho throughout the competition.

It is hard to criticise the hosts considering they lost talisman and superstar Neymar just ahead of the tournament.

They were still favourites to win the competition even without the PSG star. However, unlike in past tournaments in the last 12 years, the Selecao held their nerve and lifted the trophy.