Par : Dérestable John Mickenley

In a crucial match for first place in Group D of the Copa America, Brazil were held to a draw by a strong Colombian team, sealing their second place in the group.

The start of the match was lively with Brazil taking the lead in the 12th minute thanks to a goal from Raphaël, known as Raphinha, on a superb free kick. However, Colombia was quick to react and equalized just before half-time thanks to D. Muñoz in the 45+2nd minute, following a series of corners well exploited by the Cafeteros.

Despite several attempts in the second half, notably with Rodrygo and Vinicius on the left side, Brazil failed to regain the lead.

With this draw, Colombia finished first in the group with 7 points, while Brazil finished second with 5 points. This result means that Brazil will face Uruguay in the quarter-finals of the Copa America, a formidable opponent led by Marcelo Bielsa, who has had an excellent run so far with 3 wins and 9 goals scored.

Although qualified for the quarter-finals, Brazil has not yet completely reassured its supporters after having won only one victory in three group stage matches. Dorival Junior’s team will have to find the impressive level of play shown against Paraguay (4-1 victory) to hope to overcome the Uruguayan obstacle and continue its path towards the final of this prestigious competition and especially Brazil who will have to play without their main star Vinicius Jr due to accumulation of cards in the group stage.

Colombia, meanwhile, are preparing to face Panama in a match that could offer José Pekerman and his men a great opportunity to confirm their form ahead of the knockout stages of the Copa America.