Four Brazilian players were walking a disciplinary tightrope at kickoff, and it didn't take long for one to fall off. Just six minutes into the match, James Rodriguez flicked the ball over Vinicius Jr.'s head in midfield, causing Vinicius to collapse in a heap. Referee Jesus Valenzuela showed a yellow card to Vinicius, leaving him suspended for Brazil’s quarterfinal match against Uruguay.
Vinicius' absence is significant. He is not only an excellent player but is also seen as the team's talisman, the go-to player in tough times. His importance is heightened by the inconsistent form of his Real Madrid colleague, Rodrygo, who struggled to make an impact in this match.
Dorival Júnior now faces tough decisions. One option is to move Rodrygo to the left and play Endrick through the middle. Alternatively, Gabriel Martinelli or Pepe could step in on the left, but the most likely substitute is Savio, who performed well in Brazil’s first two matches.
No option is perfect. Rodrygo lacks Vinicius' speed and penetration, Martinelli is out of form, Pepe is untested, and Savio is left-footed, requiring adjustments to Brazil's attack. Decisions, decisions, decisions...
Brazil 1-1 Colombia: Key Takeaways
Vini Jr.'s Costly Yellow Card and James' Brilliant Performance
James Rodriguez has been outstanding, particularly with his set pieces. His precise delivery creates significant scoring opportunities, and he has already created seven chances from set pieces in this Copa America. He almost had a third dead-ball assist against Brazil, thwarted only by VAR. Despite losing some pace, Rodriguez's vision and technique keep him a step ahead, making him essential to Colombia's success.
Match Overview
This match between two Copa America heavyweights lived up to the hype. It was intense and felt like a knockout tie. Despite 17 fouls and four yellow cards in the first half, the match was thrilling, highlighted by a stunning Raphinha free kick for Brazil's early lead. Colombia's response, maintaining their 26-game unbeaten streak, showcased their quality and resilience. Both teams had late chances to win, suggesting a potential semifinal rematch.
Tactical Adjustments and Future Challenges
Brazil's reliance on long balls increased, with 15% of their passes being long balls, the highest since 2015. Both Brazil and Colombia had players suspended for their quarterfinals—Vinicius Jr. for Brazil and Jefferson Lerma for Colombia.
Brazil’s struggle to build momentum and their upcoming match against Uruguay without Vinicius Jr. pose significant challenges for Dorival Júnior’s side. Meanwhile, Colombia's response to Brazil's early lead demonstrated their belief and resilience, helping them top the group and avoid a quarterfinal clash with Uruguay.
Quarterfinal Schedule and Stats
Quarterfinal matches:**
- Argentina vs. Ecuador: Thursday at 9pm ET
- Venezuela vs. Canada: Friday at 9pm ET
- Panama vs. Colombia: Saturday at 6pm ET
- Brazil vs. Uruguay: Saturday at 9pm ET
Match Stats:
- Expected goals: 0.31 (Brazil) - 1.17 (Colombia)
- Shots: 7 (Brazil) - 13 (Colombia)
- Shots on goal: 3 (Brazil) - 6 (Colombia)
- Saves: 5 (Brazil) - 2 (Colombia)
- Possession: 51% (Brazil) - 49% (Colombia)
- Fouls: 14 (Brazil) - 19 (Colombia)
- Yellow cards: 3 (Brazil) - 2 (Colombia)
Brazil remain unbeaten in the Copa America group stage since 2019, matching their record unbeaten run from 1993 to 1999. Colombia's unbeaten run, beginning in February 2022, continues at 26 matches.
Brazil’s group stage results, including a goalless draw with Costa Rica, ultimately placed them second in the group, behind Colombia. As the knockout bracket is set, Brazil vs. Uruguay stands out as a thrilling quarterfinal match.
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