Brazil breaks free against Paraguay

After the zero number and a bitter start for Brazil in the Copa America, the South American team was able to break free in the second match. The Seleção celebrated its 4-1 (3-0) victory over Paraguay at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. For Dorival Junior's side, this was an important success to continue to lead the group in their hands. Paraguay was eliminated from the tournament after the defeat. “I said be patient,” the coach said after the match: “Because this team is on the right track.”

Lucas Paqueta initially missed a penalty kick (31), before Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior scored, four minutes later, the Brazilians' first goal in this competition after a wonderful dribble. Savinho followed up shortly after (43'), before Vinicius Junior scored his second shortly before the half-time whistle (45+5).

Omar Alderete reduced the deficit for Paraguay to 3-1 with a wonderful long-range shot (48). Paqueta scored from a handball penalty to make the final score 4-1 (65th place). Television cameras showed star striker Neymar celebrating in the stands, injured since October last year and the Brazilians will have to do without him in this tournament held in the United States.

Brazil are four points behind Colombia (6) in the standings. Thanks to a 3-0 (1-0) win over Costa Rica, the Colombians have already qualified for the quarter-finals before facing Brazil on Wednesday (3:00 am CET).

World champions Argentina, who have already qualified for the quarter-finals, will be without Lionel Messi for their final group game against Peru on Sunday evening. The 37-year-old injured his right thigh during the 1-0 win over Chile. Assistant coach Walter Samuel said they would monitor the injury and make a decision day by day.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:240629-99-572946/3