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Copa America 2021: Neymar Inspires Brazil’s 3-0 Victory Against Venezuela
- The victory helped Brazil lay down an early marker in Group A and puts them in good stead to win a 10th Copa America crown.
An emphatic display by Brazil saw the defending champions kickstart their Copa America title defense with a convincing 3-0 victory over Venezuela in the opening game of the tournament, EKO HOT BLOG gathered.
The 47th edition of the Copa America has been a long time coming, primarily due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As recently as two weeks ago, its commencement was up in the air following doubts over the host nation.
Brazil stepped in at the death to host the competition for a consecutive edition. They sent a statement of intent to the rest of the continent with their performance on the opening day.
Coach Tite made three changes to the side that saw off Paraguay in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier last week. Alisson, Renan Lodi and Lucas Paqueta all came into the starting lineup at the expense of Ederson, Alex Sandro and Roberto Firmino.
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Neymar was injured when his nation lifted a ninth continental title on home soil two years ago. The Paris Saint-Germain man is, however, keen to make up for that and was the chief instigator as his side steamrolled over Venezuela.
A bright start to the game saw Brazil go close through Eder Militao and Richarlison. Marquinhos then broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute with a left-footed finish.
Brazil continued to dominate proceedings and should have doubled their lead before halftime but for poor finishing.
It was more of the same in the second half. Neymar finally got on the scoresheet from the penalty spot in the 64th minute, scoring his 67th goal in national colors.
Referee Esteban Ostojich had initially waved play on when Yohan Cumana felled Danilo in the box. However, he rescinded his decision after consultations with the VAR.
From then on, it was cruise control for the Samba Boys. They added more gloss to the scoreline when Gabriel Barbosa scored with a header from Neymar’s cross in the 89th minute.
The victory helped Brazil lay down an early marker in Group A and puts them in good stead to win a 10th Copa America crown.
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