17th Match: Paraguay vs Brazil – Copa America 2024

Copa América Showdown: Paraguay vs. Brazil

LAS VEGAS, June 28 – (OleMundo.com)

In today’s Copa América clash, Brazil secured a 4-1 victory over Paraguay in a match filled with drama, physicality, and pivotal moments. The encounter, held at a packed Allegiant Stadium in Vegas, offered a captivating display of football, with both teams showcasing their desire to progress to the knockout rounds.

First Half: Early Struggles and Turning Points

The game began on an even keel, with both teams testing each other out. Paraguay soon found their footing, becoming the dominant side and creating numerous chances. Damian Bobadilla, the Paraguayan midfielder, was particularly impressive, forcing Brazil’s goalkeeper, Alisson, into making two crucial saves. Paraguay’s aggressive approach put Brazil on the back foot, leading to a chippy and physical contest as tensions flared between the two sides.

Despite Paraguay’s dominance, Brazil began to grow into the game. The turning point came when Paraguay committed a handball inside their box, resulting in a penalty. Lucas Paquetá stepped up but missed the opportunity to put Brazil ahead. However, Brazil didn’t have to wait long for their breakthrough. A few minutes later, Vinícius Júnior, assisted by Paquetá, gave Brazil the lead. Soon after, Savinho doubled the advantage after a deflection off Matías Espinoza.

As injury time approached, the game became even more heated. A scuffle broke out, resulting in several yellow cards being issued. Vinícius Júnior was pushed out of bounds, sparking another altercation. Once play resumed, Viní Jr capitalized on a Rodrygo assist as the two broke in behind Paraguay’s back line to extend Brazil’s lead to 3-0.

Second Half: Paraguay’s Response and Brazil’s Control

Paraguay came out strong in the second half, almost immediately reducing the deficit with a well-taken shot from outside the box by Omar Alderete, making it 3-1. Paraguay continued to press, controlling much of the play as they sought a second goal. Their efforts were thwarted, however, when another handball was called against them inside their box. Paquetá, stepping up once more, found redemption by converting the penalty, once again stutter-stepping before sending the ball to the goalkeeper’s left for a 4-1 scoreline.

Despite their continued efforts, Paraguay couldn’t maintain their momentum. They found spaces, particularly on the left with the space left by Vinícius, but failed to capitalize. A second goal was disallowed for offside, and the game’s physicality intensified. Players were involved in rough tackles and confrontations. A notable incident saw Douglas Luiz and Andrés Cubas tangling for the ball, resulting in the Paraguayan midfielder being sent off with a red card for kicking out at Luiz.

Conclusion

The match ended with more skirmishes and a tense atmosphere as the referee blew the final whistle after three minutes of added time. Brazil’s 4-1 victory ensured their progression in the tournament, while the result, combined with Colombia’s earlier win over Costa Rica, eliminated Paraguay from Copa América contention.

For fans, this game was a rollercoaster of emotions, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football. Brazil’s ability to capitalize on key moments and maintain composure under pressure proved decisive. Alisson’s five magnificent saves were decisive and put him in contention for Man of the Match. However, Vini Jr’s great performance and movement in front of goal showcased his talent and proved once again why he is one of the best in the world, awarding him today’s MOTM. Paraguay’s spirited performance, though commendable, fell short as they exited the tournament amidst a flurry of yellow and red cards.

Match Stats Overview

Brazil attempted 17 shots with 6 on target, maintaining 55% of possession. They completed 475 passes, earned 6 corners, and made 5 saves. Additionally they committed no offsides, recorded 13 fouls and 3 yellow cards.

Paraguay took 15 shots with 6 on target, with possession at 45%. They completed 392 passes, won 4 corners, and their keeper made 2 saves. Paraguay was caught offsides 1 time, committed 12 fouls and received 2 yellow cards and 1 red card.

Final Match Stats

Brazil:

Shots: 17
Shots on goal: 6
Possession: 55%
Passes made: 475
Pass Accuracy: 85%
Corner kicks: 6
Offsides: 0
Fouls: 13
Saves: 5
Cards: 3 Yellow

Paraguay:

Shots: 15
Shots on goal: 6
Possession: 45%
Passes made: 392
Pass Accuracy: 85%
Corner kicks: 4
Offsides: 1
Fouls: 12
Saves: 2
Cards: 2 Yellow, 1 Red