Group B: Brazil 2-2 Paraguay
HOW IT HAPPENED: Brazil had substitute Fred to thank after salvaging a late point in their Copa América clash with Paraguay on Saturday night.
But while coach Mano Menezes’ first reaction will have been one of relief, his side remain without a win in the competition and actually took the lead shortly before half time when midfielder Jádson fired low into the bottom corner of Paraguay goalkeeper Justo Villar.
Roque Santa Cruz leveled matters 11 minutes into the second half – matched his country’s all time goal scoring record of 25 – when Brazil failed to clear the danger from a Marcelo Estigarribia cross and the Manchester City striker was able to direct his effort past the attention of Júlio César.
Paraguay took a surprise lead with 20 minutes left – Estigarribia hooking a ball to substitute Nelso Haedo Valdez and while his shot was half blocked by Lúcio, the ball still found it way to the back of the net.
Villar tipped an Elano free-kick over the bar with the minutes ticking away but the keeper could do little about Fred’s goal as the former Lyon cool slotted home a sweet right-footed finish after a taking a perfectly-weighted pass from Ganso.
Turning point: Brazil might have been expected to go on win the game once they went ahead before the interval. However, Santa Cruz’s goal was not only a personal milestone for the player himself, it also started a chain of events that almost ended Brazilian’s hopes for the entire tournament.
What it means: The point prevented Brazil from sliding to the bottom of the group on goal difference and keeps their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive. They must now beat Ecuador in their final game. Paraguay are second and face leaders Venezuela in their final game.
Group B: Venezuela 1-0 Ecuador
How it happened: Venezuela took charge of Group by claiming all three points in their evening clash with Ecuador in Salta. In what was only their third ever Copa América win, the Venezuelans followed up their credible 0-0 draw with Brazil to the lead the way in their group courtesy of a narrow win over Ecuador.
Midfielder César González made the vital breakthrough just past the hour mark when his stunning effort left Ecuador goalkeeper Marcelo Elizaga with no chance.
Turning Point: González’s quality effort proved to be enough to separate the sides.
What it means: Venezuela are now top of their group with four points. Ecuador are bottom with just one.
What’s next: Santa Fe will play host to Colombia and Bolivia in Group A in Sunday’s only fixture.