Brazilian players celebrate a goal during their 4-1 victory over Paraguay in the Copa América 2024 Group D match at Allegiant Stadium. © Twitter (@brfootball)
Vinícius Júnior scores his first two goals in the continental tournament, propelling his team to a commanding 4-1 victory in the Group D match.
In a thrilling Group D encounter of the CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™, Brazil showcased their prowess with a commanding 4-1 win over Paraguay. The standout performance by Vinícius Júnior, who netted his first two goals in the tournament, propelled the Seleção towards the quarterfinals.
Key Highlights
- Vinícius Júnior Scores Twice: Achieves his first Copa América goals for Brazil.
- Dominant First Half: Brazil led 3-0 at halftime.
- Penalty Drama: Lucas Paquetá missed one penalty but scored another.
- Paraguay’s Struggles: Second consecutive defeat leaves them without points.
Match Recap
Brazil entered the match with determination after a goalless draw in their debut. From the outset, they displayed an attacking intent, with Vinícius Júnior making a crucial run and cross in the 2nd minute. Despite dominating possession, Brazil initially struggled to convert chances, while Paraguay aimed to capitalize on counterattacks.
Paraguay’s early threats came from Julio Enciso’s quick corner in the 9th minute and Damián Bobadilla’s long-range effort, both testing Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson. Brazil’s breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Vinícius Júnior finished a beautiful passing sequence, opening the scoring with a low shot.
Brazil doubled their lead in the 43rd minute when Rodrygo’s effort forced a save, allowing Savinho to capitalize on the rebound. Just before halftime, Vinícius Júnior struck again, taking advantage of a defensive lapse to score his second and Brazil’s third goal of the night.
Paraguay’s attempt to claw back into the game was marked by Omar Alderete’s 48th-minute goal, a well-placed shot that beat Alisson. However, Brazil quickly regained control, and after a handball by a Paraguayan defender, Paquetá converted the resulting penalty in the 65th minute, sealing the 4-1 scoreline.
Despite Paraguay’s efforts, including a red card for Andrés Cubas, Brazil maintained dominance until the final whistle, securing a decisive victory.
What’s Next?
Brazil will face Colombia in their final Group D match at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on July 2. A draw will be enough for Brazil to secure their spot in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Paraguay will meet Costa Rica at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, in a bid to salvage some pride, though they have already been eliminated from the tournament.
Lineups & Match Info
Paraguay
Rodrigo Moríñigo; Gustavo Velázquez; Fabián Balbuena, Omar Alderete, Matías Espinoza; Andrés Cubas, Mathias Villasanti, Damián Bobadilla; Julio Enciso, Miguel Almirón, Alex Arce.
Substitutes used: Kaku, Néstor Giménez, Adam Bareiro, Hernesto Caballero, Ramón Sosa.
Cards: Fabián Balbuena (yellow), Andrés Cubas (red), Ernesto Caballero (yellow).
Coach: Daniel Garnero.
Brazil
Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Éder Militão, Wendell; João Gomes, Bruno Guimarães, Savinho, Paquetá, Vinícius Júnior; Rodrygo.
Substitutes used: Douglas Luiz, Raphinha, Andreas Pereira, Endrick, Gabriel Magalhães.
Cards: Lucas Paquetá (yellow), Wendell (yellow), Vinícius Júnior (yellow).
Superior Player of the Match Michelob ULTRA: Vinícius Júnior (Brazil)
Goals
35′ Vinícius Jr. (Brazil)
43′ Savinho (Brazil)
45+5′ Vinícius Jr. (Brazil)
48′ Omar Alderete (Paraguay)
65′ Lucas Paquetá – penalty kick (Brazil)
Referee: Piero Maza (Chile)
Venue: Allegiant Stadium – Las Vegas, Nevada
