Despite being underestimated, Paraguay entered the match without any hesitation against Brazil. Paraguay even had the first notable attack. In the 15th minute, Bobadilla’s long-range shot hit Militao’s head and changed direction, and only the brilliance of goalkeeper Alisson saved Brazil from conceding a goal.

In the 30th minute, Paqueta won a penalty for Brazil when his shot hit Cubas’ hand in the penalty area. But on the 11m mark, the West Ham star took a shot that went out.

Just a few minutes later, it was Paqueta who redeemed himself with a delicate pass that allowed Vinicius to calmly handle it and then gently finish to open the score.

The goal helped Brazil relieve the pressure and play more and more excitedly. At the end of the first half, Savio’s close-range shot easily doubled the gap, before Vinicius punished a mistake by the Paraguayan defender to put his name on the scoreboard for the second time.

Right at the beginning of the second half, Alderete made amends with a long-range shot to keep Paraguay’s hope alive. However, that was all coach Daniel Garnero’s team could do in this match. Because in the 63rd minute, Paraguay was awarded a penalty for the second time after Villasanti touched the ball with his hand in the penalty area. On the 11m mark, Paqueta succeeded the second time he was given the opportunity.

The frustration made Paraguay unable to keep their composure. They were down to 10 men from the 81st minute after Cubas was sent off for fouling Brazil’s Douglas Luiz. At the end of the match, Velazquez headed the ball into the Brazilian net but the goal was disallowed for offside.

With this victory, Brazil has 4 points after 2 matches and is temporarily ranked second in Group D after Colombia (6 points). “Selecao” must win Colombia in the final round if they want to continue as group leaders. On the contrary, Paraguay with 0 points has been officially eliminated.

Vinicius Junior scored a brace to deliver Brazil their first three-point performance of Copa America 2024.

Saturday’s (all times AEST) battle at Allegiant Stadium had everything: five goals, two penalties, and a red card.

After a scoreless opener at the United States tournament, Dorival Junior’s side did not disappoint in their second Group D match with a 4-1 victory over Paraguay.