Brazil has secured a spot in the Copa America quarter-finals, yet without Vinicius Junior, who faces suspension after a second yellow card. Brazil joined forces with Colombia at the quarter-mark, settling for second in Group D. This outcome followed a thrilling 1-1 stalemate in San Francisco.
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Raphinha’s dazzling free-kick early in the game was offset by Daniel Munoz’s late first-half goal, culminating in a draw at Levi’s Stadium. Despite the setback, Selecao maintained a one-point advantage over Costa Rica, who overcame Paraguay 2-1. Meanwhile, having topped their group with seven points, Nestor Lorenzo’s Colombian squad looks ahead to a clash with Panama.
A James Rodriguez free-kick grazed the bar before Raphina found success from similar range. Colombia then responded robustly, although a potential go-ahead goal was disbanded for offside. Munoz’s timely equalizer kept Colombian hopes alive, with the team demonstrating continued vigor after halftime.
At the other end, goalkeeper Camilo Vargas’s reflex save against an Andreas Pereira strike kept Brazil from usurping Colombia for the top group position. Both teams advanced, but Brazil wobbled into knockout rounds sans Vinicius. Amidst this, Brazil’s prowess in advancing from group stages at Copa America remains evident, marking their 14th progression in 15 attempts.
Their unbeaten streak in opening tournament phases now matches a past 10-game run. Yet, Dorival’s concern over his team’s attacking precision hangs in the air, mirrored by a modest shot accuracy and an overall xG of 0.4. Brazil now faces a formidable match-up against a victorious Uruguayan team. Despite a quiet showing from Vinicius, his teammate Raphinha stepped up, continuing Brazil’s recent trend of netting free-kick goals against Colombia.
Colombia’s resilience shone through, maintaining a formidable unbeaten streak despite today’s draw halting a sequence of victories. Their come-from-behind capacity was on full display, powerfully countering Brazil’s initial lead. Next on their agenda is an encounter with Panama in Arizona, as Colombia seeks to deepen their tournament run, showcasing indomitable spirit and tenacity.
