Although the numbers were little considering the capacity of iconic Maracana, the cheers and jeers from the supporters brought completeness to the electrifying Copa America final between Brazil and Argentina. These two bitter rivals met in a final for the first time since 2007 and the Selecao, despite all their dominance in recent history, suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Albiceleste after an underwhelming display at their own backyard.
Below are the Brazil players rated in their defeat against Argentina.
Ederson: 5
It was not at all easy for the Man City custodian when he was one-on-one with Angel Di Maria. But his outing was not great either as he should have put the Argentine under a bit of pressure with better decision-making.
Danilo: 5.5
The fullback was mostly restricted to his defensive duties as he offered little threat with his overlapping runs. Did well to contain Lautaro Martínez.
Marquinhos: 6.5
The PSG ace was well-positioned in the heart of the backline. Tried to play the ball out from the back and carry it forward to accelerate the counter-attacks.
Thiago Silva: 6.5
Used his experience to keep close tabs on Lionel Messi all throughout the contest. The veteran centre-half did his job with perfection barring one bizarre backpass to Ederson.
Renan Lodi: 4.5
Although the pass from Rodrigo De Paul was sublime, the left fullback was erroneous to read the trajectory as he committed early and missed it completely. This allowed Di Maria a free run before finding the net.
Casemiro: 5.5
Could not dominate the midfield game against the energetic De Paul as well as Leandro Paredes. Made some key recoveries and interceptions, but the destructive aspect of his game was thoroughly missing tonight.
Fred: 5
Received an early booking that forced him to limit the tackles and challenges. Failed to leave an impact and was replaced by Firmino at halftime.
Lucas Paqueta: 5.5
Worked hard to win back possession and stage attacking moves. But his touches were heavy and the playmaking trait was missing with little creativity in the attacking third. Made way for Gabigol late in the match.
Everton: 5
Made no such contribution that could have tested Argentina’s defensive resolve. Was taken off to be replaced by Vinicius Jr just over the hour mark.
Richarlison: 5
Had one goal ruled out offside. No impact whatsoever for the remainder of the outing.
Neymar: 7
Kept on being fouled by the Argentines whenever he had the ball at his feet. His swift footwork and mobility created a few chances during the final quarter.
Brazil Substitutes Vs Argentina
Firmino: 5.5
Was brought in to inject firepower high up the pitch. Could not make any notable contribution.
Vinicius Jr: 6
Tried to be effective from the left flank, but was mostly caught by the Argentina defence.
Emerson: 6
Should have started the game in place of Lodi.
Gabriel Barbosa: 7
Forced Emi Martinez to make a stellar save which proved decisive for the Copa 2021 winners.
