Brazil 1-0 Peru: 5 Hits and Flops as Lucas Paqueta and Neymar inspire the Selecao to a big win | Copa America 2021

Neymar and Lucas Paqueta celebrate Brazil's goal against Peru
Neymar and Lucas Paqueta celebrate Brazil's goal against Peru

#3. Hit: Lucas Paqueta, Brazil

Lucas Paqueta rejoices after scoring Brazil's goal against Peru
Lucas Paqueta rejoices after scoring Brazil's goal against Peru

Lucas Paqueta has had a dream run for Brazil in the Copa America 2021 so far. The 23-year-old scored the winner for Brazil yet again after leaving his mark in the quarterfinal against Chile.

Paqueta scored the only goal of the game to secure a berth for Brazil in the finals of the Copa America 2021. The Lyon midfielder engaged well with the Peruvian back-line and was a constant threat up-front.

Paqueta won ten duels, made six recoveries, won four tackles and created three chances for Brazil throughout the game. It was a terrific, all-round performance from the youngster.


#2. Flop: Aldo Corzo, Peru

Aldo Corzo (right) tussles it out with Richarlison
Aldo Corzo (right) tussles it out with Richarlison

Aldo Corzo endured a difficult night against the defending champions. The 32-year-old failed to assert his authority on the game and was repeatedly tormented by the likes of Neymar, Richarlison, Renan Lodi and Fred down the left flank.

Corzo struggled defensively and offered little going forward as well. The Brazilians allowed him no space to create something from the wings. Defensively, the pacy attacks and one-touch passing from the Selecao players left him completely dumbfounded at times.

Corzo lost five duels against Brazil throughout the game. Ricardo Gareca eventually subbed him off in the 75th minute of the game in favor of Carlos Lora.


#1. Hit: Neymar, Brazil

Neymar in action against Peru
Neymar in action against Peru

Neymar was Brazil's star yet again. The Paris Saint-Germain talisman set up Paqueta after some brilliant work inside the box and threatened to pull clear every time he had the ball at his feet. His link-up play with Paqueta and Richarlison higher up the pitch was mesmerizing.

Neymar was everywhere for Brazil. Neymar dropped deep on numerous occasions to receive the ball. He eased up the transitions from defense to attack and looked really sharp on the counters. Neymar really lit up the stage with his dazzling skills.

The 29-year-old won ten duels, completed five dribbles and recovered possession seven times against Peru. Additionally, he created three chances and eventually got the game-clinching assist. Brazil will hope that he continues his red-hot form and can guide them to their 10th Copa America title.

Quick Links