Brazil 0-0 Paraguay (4-3 pens): Hosts scrape into semi-finals

2019 Copa America hosts Brazil had to hold their nerve in beating Paraguay on penalties to reach the final four of this year’s tournament.

Tite’s side saw 70% possession throughout the 120 minutes but failed to convert any of their 26 efforts on goal.

Paraguay were even reduced to 10 men after 58 minutes when West Ham United centre-back Fabian Balbuena was dismissed for a foul on Roberto Firmino. Brazil had initially been awarded a penalty but was overturned for a free kick upon VAR review.

Brazil will face arch-rivals Argentina in the semi-final in Belo Horizonte next Tuesday, after they beat Venezuela 2-0. Alisson is yet to concede in all four matches at this tournament.

The hosts peppered the opposition goal in Porto Alegre with Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus shooting narrowly wide from close range before Chelsea winger Willian hit a post in the final minute.

Brazil were actually beaten by Paraguay on penalties in 2011 and 2015 editions, but triumphed this year despite Firmino dragging his spot-kick wide when they led 3-2. City’s Jesus scored the winner.