Paqueta scores the only goal of the match to defend the victory of the champions against Chile.
Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus was sent off after beating Chilean Eugenio Mena with a flying shot in the 48th minute of the quarter-finals of the Copa America on Friday at the Nilton Santos Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
The defending champion of Brazil advanced to the semifinals with a 1-0 victory after substitute Lucas Paqueta scored the only goal of the match.
Paqueta’s winner in the left corner of Chilean goalkeeper Claudio Bravo in the 46th minute gave Brazilian fans some hope that Selecao would relax in the next stage.
But just two minutes later, Jesus was sent off after hitting Chilean Eugenio Mena with a flying kick.
RED CARD FOR JESUS 🟥
Gabriel Jesus is expelled with the ugly challenge. pic.twitter.com/nLpxuE8uDb
– TSN (@TSN_Sports) July 3, 2021
Neymar and Brazilian coach Tite said after the match that Jesus did not see Mena and accidentally kicked him while trying to regain possession in the middle of the field.
“Defending well is a feature of ours,” said Brazilian Thiago Silva. “Regardless of what we did today, we conceded few goals. Always up to 10 we have created clear opportunities. I’m very proud of this team, for their fighting spirit. “
Paqueta replaced Roberto Firmino after a tense first half with few opportunities for both teams.
An exhausted Neymar said after the match that playing with ten men was a great test for Brazil.
“Every game we need to get some tests to make us stronger, shows that we can do it in all circumstances,” Neymar said. “We had to stay together. It was very difficult to do that. “
Chilean Arturo Vidal said his team will leave the tournament with some pride.
“We lost to a great team, one of the favorites he plays at home,” he said. “If we play as we played today, with a little more time to work, this team will clearly have its intensity. We hope to qualify for the World Cup. It will be difficult, but we can. “
Peru advanced to the semifinals after beating Paraguay 4-3 on penalties after a 3-3 record in regular time.
Brazil and Peru played the last final of the Copa America in 2019, with the hosts winning 3-1. Jesus was also sent off in that match at the Maracana Stadium in Rio.