[ad_1]
Brazil was frustrated by Venezuela in Sao Paulo, but Roberto Firmino’s goal in the 67th minute was enough for Selecao on Saturday (AEDT).
Firmino appeared with 23 minutes to go in Neymar’s absence, as Brazil remained perfect to top the standings with two points ahead of rivals Argentina.
Back in action after last month’s 4-2 win in Peru, Tite made four changes, some applied, in his starting XI, with unfit Neymar, Casemiro (coronavirus), Philippe Coutinho and Weverton dropping out and Gabriel Jesus, Allan, Everton Ribeiro and Ederson entering.
Brazil, which drew 0-0 against Venezuela in last year’s Copa América, found the back of the net in seven minutes, but the linesman raised his flag. Richarlison had scored after Renan Lodi’s false shot crashed into the Everton forward’s path.
The South American champions controlled possession but had nothing to show for it, struggling to create clear chances.
An unmarked Jesus was unable to swing the ball into goal just after half an hour, instead making an effort to Richarlison, who was only able to deflect his short-range shot off the post.
Venezuela rarely threatened, although Yeferson Soteldo got into the penalty area and slipped a cross into the six-yard box, but Marquinhos intervened at the last minute to clear the danger.
Brazil once again had the ball in the back of the net before the break, but Douglas Luiz’s effort was nullified by a foul on Venezuelan goalkeeper Wuilker Farinez.
After a VAR review for handball was canceled at nine minutes into the second half, Brazil finally broke through Venezuela’s resistance 13 minutes later when the ball headed for Firmino, who made no mistake from close range.
What does that mean? Brazil roll on
It wasn’t perfect or pretty, but Brazil did the job behind closed doors. Without Neymar due to a strained groin and key midfielder Casemiro, Brazil lacked star quality against a stubborn Venezuela team. Despite not creating many clear opportunities, Brazil managed to extend their winning streak to four matches, while being undefeated in their last 20 World Cup qualifying matches.
I sign with a goal that increases confidence
Much has been said about Firmino, especially amid Diogo Jota’s remarkable form streak at Liverpool. But Firmino appeared when Brazil needed him most. It was his first goal in four games and only the second since he scored two goals against Bolivia on October 9.
Brazil lacks spark
While Brazil went away with maximum points, it was far from convincing. Tite’s men seemed slow and predictable in attacking the impressive visitors, lacking creativity in the last third.
Whats Next?
Brazil will travel to Uruguay in Montevideo on Tuesday, while Venezuela will host Chile the same day.
