Brazil book themselves for a semifinal spot in the Copa America 2021 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over-energized Chile. Lucas Paqueta scored the only goal of the match and Alexis Sanchez couldn’t inspire the visitors for a comeback.
The Selecao were reduced to ten men after Gabriel Jesus was sent off in the 48th minute. However, another clean sheet to their name, Brazilians have just conceded two goals in five matches so far in the competition. In contrast, a frustrating form in the competition ends finally for La Roja.
Brazil 1-0 Chile : Team News
Brazil head coach Tite fielded a 4-2-3-1 formation and Ederson made it to the starting 11.
In comparison, Chile opted for a defensive 5-3-2 formation and Alexis Sanchez made his first appearance in the tournament.
Brazil 1-0 Chile : Analysis
Despite boasting about maximum possession (59%), Chile were too unlucky in front to concede a goal. In the first half, it was anybody’s game as both sides failed to break the deadlock.
However, the Little Canaries found their first breakthrough after a poor Chilean defence who couldn’t keep possession away from Paqueta. But, things started looking difficult for the hosts as Gabriel Jesus committed a terrible foul on Eugenio Mena and thus, he was shown a red card.
Eduardo Vargas pulled off a goal from a free-kick but unfortunately, it was ruled offside by the linesmen and then by VAR. Ben Brereton then tried a superb attempt but luck didn’t favour him as it hit the post.
Notable Performances
Lucas Pacqueta (7.5/10) – An inspired substitution who really made it count for the Yellow and Greens.
Danilo (7/10) – He was equally brilliant in managing defence and offence whenever needed. However, he was a bit unfortunate by not finding the back of the net.
Gabriel Jesus (5/10) – After missing a golden opportunity in the early stages of the match, he misfired by committing a ruthless foul on Mena. It has not been a good season overall for the Manchester City striker.
Brazil faces familiar opponents Peru in the semi-finals of Copa America this season.
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