A Brazil team playing in the Copa America at home on the back of a seven-game winning streak would normally be hot favourites to triumph but this is no ordinary year and no ordinary Copa. Brazil are the holders, having won the 2019 tournament when it was also played in front of their own fans. In truth, though, this tournament is as much about preparing his side for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002, and a 20-year gap between trophies is a long time for the five-time winners. “Brazil played as they usually do,” columnist Tostao wrote after last week’s World Cup qualifying win over Ecuador.

Source: The Star June 10, 2021 13:52 UTC