Brazil begin Copa America title defence with 2-0 victory over Venezuela

Times Sports
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Brazil beat Venezuela by 2 goals. Photo: CONMEBOL

Brazil kicked off their campaign for a ninth Women’s Copa America title in solid fashion on Sunday, defeating Venezuela 2-0 in Quito to extend their remarkable record in the competition.

Despite being heavy favourites, Brazil were given an early test by Venezuela, who created the better chances in the opening exchanges. Dayana Rodriguez fired just wide from long range, while Bárbara Olivieri went close following a corner.

However, Brazil broke the deadlock just after the half-hour mark with a well-crafted goal. Isadora Haas delivered a deep cross to Giovana, who expertly teed up Amanda Gutierres to calmly slot home and open the scoring.

Venezuela responded with intent after the break, forcing Brazilian goalkeeper Lorena into action. She denied a long-range effort from Deyna Castellanos and produced a sharp save to keep out Verónica Herrera’s header.

At the other end, Venezuela’s Nayluisa Cáceres also had to be alert, notably tipping over a dangerous free-kick from Duda Sampaio to keep the deficit at one.

Brazil eventually sealed the result two minutes from time. Giovana rose to meet a cross with a well-placed header, which was clinically converted by Sampaio with a composed finish.

“I’m leaving happy with the victory because it was a very difficult match—the quality of the Venezuelan team was surprising,” said Sampaio after the match. “South American teams have improved in quality.”

The win maintains Brazil’s dominance in the competition, taking their record to an astonishing 48 wins, one draw and just two defeats from 51 matches. It also marked their seventh consecutive Copa America victory over Venezuela.

Next up, Brazil face Bolivia on Wednesday, while Venezuela look to bounce back against Colombia in their second Group B fixture.

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