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Brazil crushed Paraguay 4-1 to revive their 2024 Copa America hopes on Friday (June 28) in Nevada. They had overseen a dour goalless stalemate with Costa Rica in their opener on Monday.
Vinicius Junior struck a first-half brace either side of a goal from Savio, before Lucas Paqueta netted a penalty after the hour mark to provide gloss to the scoreline. Omar Alderete pulled one back for La Albirroja early into the second half, but it wasn't enough to inspire a comeback.
The Selecao knew they had a point to prove after their prosaic display against Costa Rica earlier this week. They came flying out of the blocks to make a fast start, which had Paraguay on the ropes.
It was evident by how Daniel Garnero's side made a series of defensive mistakes throughout the game, although their attacking game was strong.
With six shots on target, the Albirroja certainly tested their rivals but couldn't beat the mighty frame of Alisson. To exacerbate matters, Andres Cubas was sent off in the 81st minute.
Having lost their opening clash to Colombia, Paraguay are now out of contention to reach the knockouts, with zero points in two games. Brazil, meanwhile, solidified their position in second with four points, ahead of their showdown with leaders, Colombia.
Here are the player ratings for Brazil:
Alisson - 7/10
The Brazil custodian made a series of vital saves to frustrate Paraguay.
Danilo - 7/10
Sloppy in possession but a reliable figure in defence with his excellent vision, Danilo also drove forward on occasion to join up the attack.
Eder Militao - 7.5/10
A resolute display from the Real Madrid star, whose reading ability saw him make four clearances and block two shots.
He didn't allow Paraguayan forwards much time or space in their area and fought hard for the ball, winning four ground duels and three tackles.
Marquinhos - 6/10
He was eclipsed by his more active and imposing centre-back cohort, but Marquinhos played an important role in building from the back with his impeccable passing range.
Wendell - 6.5/10
The 30-year-old added an extra layer to Brazil's attack with his overlapping runs and created a few chances too.
Bruno Guimaraes - 6.5/10
He struggled at times to get control in midfield but was otherwise good. An attacking menace on the night, Guimaraes hit the woodwork as well.
Joao Gomes - 7/10
His short and slick passes were integral to helping Brazil retain momentum.
Savio - 7.5/10
The 20-year-old opened his account for Brazil in the 43rd minute by taking his chance clinically. There could be more to come from this young man.
Lucas Paqueta - 8/10
What an action-paced night for Paqueta! He missed a penalty, assisted Vinicius and redeemed himself by scoring a penalty for their fourth goal.
Vinicius Junior - 9.5/10
A talismanic display from Vinicius with a spectacular first-half double that sent Brazil on their way to an emphatic victory.
Rodrygo - 7.5/10
No goals for Rodrygo on this stellar night for the Canaries, but he wasn't half-shabby either. His creative ability saw him make three key passes, but also tested the Paraguayan defense with two shots.
Brazil Substitutes
Raphinha - 5.5/10
Not enough impact going forward
Douglas Luiz - 6/10
He couldn't conjure much besides some good passing.
Endrick - 5/10
The young gun made four touches in 11 minutes without completing a pass.
Andreas Pereira - 5/10
A complete non-factor in proceedings after he came on
Gabriel Magalhaes - N/A
He merely came on to see the game off in the dying embers.
