Copa America: Dani Alves named Man-of-the-match for scintillating display against Argentina
Whats the story?
Brazilian captain and 36-year-old right back Dani Alves was in devastating form against Argentina today in the first semi-final of the Copa America, dominating in both attack and defence to be awarded the Man-of-the-Match in the classic encounter.
Brazil edged the clash between South America's two most successful sides thanks to goals from Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus and Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino, with Argentina unlucky to have shots from Sergio Aguero and Lionel Messi hit the post.
In case you didn't know...
36-year-old Dani Alves is the oldest and most experienced member of Brazil's Copa America 2019 squad and was appointed the team captain ahead of the tournament with the injury absence of talisman Neymar.
Alves is currently without a club, having announced his departure from French champions Paris Saint-Germain over the summer, having spent two successful seasons at the Parc des Princes. It has been reported by Marca that Alves wants a return to his old club Barcelona but the Spanish champions are not considering any offer currently.
The heart of the matter
The marauding wing-back has taken up his responsibility as Brazil captain with aplomb, leading from the back in terms of forays forward as well as defensive organisation. Brazil have yet to concede even a single goal in open play in the tournament with Alex Sandro, Thiago Silva, Marquinhos, Felipe Luis alongside Dani Alves forming a seemingly unbeatable backline for the Selecao.
Alves scored a superb goal in the group stages against Peru and was instrumental in Brazil's opening goal against Argentina today, dribbling past two onrushing Albiceleste defenders to provide a disguised ball to Roberto Firmino, whose cutback was tapped in by Gabriel Jesus.
The 36-year-old was unplayable against Argentina, completing 5 successful dribbles, making 3 succesful tackles and maintaining an impressive 88% pass completion rate and was rightly awarded with the Man-of-the-Match honor.
What's next?
Brazil will face the winners of tomorrow's second semi-final between defending Copa champions Chile and Peru. The final is scheduled to take place at the Maracana stadium with kickoff set for Monday, 01:30 AM IST.