Winner of its first two matches (3-0 against Venezuela, 4-0 against Peru) in this group stage of the Copa America, Brazil calmly approached this shock against Colombia. An optimism reinforced by the inglorious performance of the Cafeteros (1 draw, 2 defeats). And yet. To everyone’s surprise, Colombia almost created a surprise.
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Very solid in defense, Juan Cuadrado’s partners quickly took the advantage over the Seleção thanks to a sumptuous goal from Luis Diaz. On a Cuadrado cross, the FC Porto winger crucified Weverton with a masterful return (0-1, 10th). A goal that allowed his team to come back to the level of the Canarinha in the standings (6 points each). An ideal scenario for the Colombians, who then regrouped to defend their advantage tooth and nail.
The Auriverdes then had a huge possession of the ball (70%), but were unable to break through the opposing wall. Positioned on the wings, Richarlison and Everton provided almost no solution and Neymar found himself too lonely in the middle of the Colombian defense to make a difference. In short, sterile domination. And then it was the turning point of the match.
An equalizer that drove the Colombians crazy
Twelve minutes from the end of regulation time, Roberto Firmino took advantage of an excellent cross from Renan Lodi to equalize (1-1, 78th). A controversial action that has driven the Cafeteros crazy. The reason ? Before Lodi’s cross, the ball bounced off the referee before coming back to Paqueta’s feet who then shifted Lodi. The Colombians then protested for several minutes, demanding the cancellation of the goal. In vain.
Protests which provoked an extra time XXL during which Casemiro scored the winning goal on a service from Neymar (2-1, 90th +10)! A cruel scenario for the Colombians, second in the standings, tied on points with Peru (who snatched a 2-2 draw against Ecuador after falling 2-0), but with one game less. For its part, Brazil continues its clear round in three games and is sure to end this group stage in first place.
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