Key takeaways as Brazil thrash Bolivia in Copa America 2019
Brazil got off to a resounding start in their opening match of the Copa America 2019. The South American giants thrashed Bolivia 3-0 at the Morumbi stadium. Philippe Coutinho was the star for Brazil with a sublime brace. Everton Soares added the third. All of Brazil's goals came in the second half. Here are they key takeaways.
Fans boo Brazilian players at half-time
Fans booed Brazil at the break after a goalless first half in the Group A encounter. The hosts played lacklustre football in the first 45 minutes. They couldn't find many openings and were restricted to passing the ball among defenders. "We need to understand. If we get forward and create chances then they will applaud," said Brazil coach Tite.
Coutinho provides the spark for Brazil
Coutinho's brilliant display in the second half needs to be lauded. The Barcelona player, who is being linked with a move elsewhere, showed his class. The 27-year-old scored the first from the penalty spot and then added the second three minutes later with a sublime header. Coutinho created enough issues for the Bolivian defensive line from his perfect corner kicks.
Brazil miss opportunities in terms of scoring
Brazil could have got more goals, but they missed some glorious chances. Thiago Silva was left unmarked eight yards out from a Coutinho corner, but he headed it well wide. Richarlison then scampered a chance from open goal. Marquinhos also shot straight at the goal-keeper from seven yards following another Coutinho corner delivery. Brazil will need to be more sharper against big teams.
Victory overshadows all the Neymar talks
The build-up to the tourney was surrounded by Neymar's injury. The PSG forward damaged a ligament in his ankle. The star footballer was also accused by a woman for rape. Najila Trindade filed a rape allegation against the former Barcelona player. The 3-0 win overshadowed the headlines surrounding Neymar and it's a positive start for the team.
