Copa America Report: Brazil 2-1 Venezuela 21 June 2015
Copa America - Group C Result: Brazil 2-1 Venezuela Date: 21 June 2015 Venue: Estadio Monumental David Arellano Brazil secured their spot in the Copa America quarterfinals after securing a 2-1 win over Venezuela, thanks to goals from Thiago Silva and Roberto Firmino. Robinho made his first start for Brazil in four years, while Philippe Coutinho replaced the suspended Neymar. Selecao broke the deadlock as early as the eighth minute, as Thiago Silva brilliantly side-footed home Robinho's corner from 12-yards out. Robinho nearly got his name on the score-sheet in the 16th minute but his half volley from 20-yards out sailed inches over the crossbar. Brazil continued to search for second goal and they went close in the 23rd minute when Willian picked out Felipe Luis on the edge of the area, but the defender's stinging effort was palmed away by Alain Baroja. Baroja was called upon just before the halftime break to deny Willian from tight angle, before Miranda volleyed just wide of the mark from the resulting corner. Dunga's side managed to double their lead shortly after the halftime break, as Willian broke free down the left, before teeing up Roberto Firmino for a simple tap-in from six-yards out. Venezuela nearly pulled a goal back in the 55th minute but Jefferson produced a fine save to keep out Jaun Arango's curling free-kick. The Venezuelans did reduce the deficit in the 82nd minute courtesy of diving header from Miku, after Arango's free-kick was turned onto the upright by Jefferson. However, Brazil managed to see off a late surge from Venezuela to secure the three points and top spot in Group C. Other result: Peru and Colombia have both qualified for the quarterfinals, despite playing out to a 0-0 on Sunday evening. Peru secured second spot in Group C, while the Colombians finished third but progressed as one of the two best third-placed teams.
