Copa America 2019: three reasons why Brazil beat Peru
It may be hard to believe, but Brazil won their first Copa America title in 12 years and ninth Copa America overall. Despite having a glittering squad, the Selecao have somehow struggled in recent editions of the tournament.
Brazil thrashed Peru 3-1 in the final showdown to lift the coveted trophy. Goals from Everton, Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison were enough to see off the Peruvians.
The game was worthy of a final as it had everything one wanted to see; free-flowing football, cards being flashed, penalties and a lot of drama to cap off one of the most controversial Copa America tournaments
Here we take a look at three reasons why Brazil beat Peru in the finals.
#3. Arthur and Casemiro bossed the midfield
Arthur Melo and Casemiro ran the midfield show for the champions. The Barcelona midfielder added balance to the side while the Real Madrid man provided an extra shield to the defense
Arthur was just exemplary on Sunday night as he put on a performance that displayed his startling maturity at just 22 years of age. The Barcelona man was all over the park for Tite's side and was pulling the strings for his side maintaining the tempo of the game. He did not shy away from taking risks and moving round in tight spaces. Arthur's brilliant vision allowed Brazil to regain the lead before going into the half-time break as he collected the ball in the middle of the park and set up Gabriel Jesus with a perfect pass who slotted it home.
Meanwhile Casemiro was a rock as always. The Real Madrid man won seven out of the eight tackles he attempted, most by any player on the pitch. The 27-year-old also won 13 duels and provided Thiago Silva and Marquinhos some assistance by acting as a shield to the Brazilian defense.