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Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior led Brazil to a 4-1 win over Paraguay in the Copa America on Friday, with Brazil coach Dorival heaping praise on the striker for his performance on the pitch.
Vinicius threatened the Paraguayan defence with his pace and skill, scoring twice in an impressive display that was a far cry from his performance in Brazil’s 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in their opening group match, in which he played a major role.
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“He played a very important role today,” Dorival told reporters with the help of an interpreter.
“He played a near-perfect game, created very good situations and chances. He was dynamic, very efficient, straightforward and direct.”
“He works very well with the other players, they have a great team spirit and he has great ability.”
Brazil will face group leaders Colombia in California on Tuesday, with a draw enough to ensure Brazil advance to the quarter-finals.
Colombia is unbeaten in 25 games and beat Brazil 2-1 in a 2026 World Cup qualifier in November.
“I think we’re going to have a high-level tournament with guys who know each other and have played against each other a lot,” Dorival said.
“The two teams are in different states, but I have no doubt that Brazil will perform at the highest level and I expect them to perform better than in the first two games.”
In an emotional press conference, the tearful Brazil coach also spoke at length about his uncle, former international Dudu, who died on Friday night at the age of 84.
“Dudu means a lot to me as a player, as a coach and especially as a person,” Dorival said.
“He was always worried about others but not himself. He was a role model for me and I always wanted to follow in his footsteps. He meant a lot to me, apart from his amazing history.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone like him. He was like a second father to me and he guided me through every stage of my life.”
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