Brazil maintained their impressive form on Wednesday, defeating Colombia 2-1 in a high-stakes Copa America clash. The game was defined by tension and three incredible goals, ending with Casemiro's 100th-minute header that pushed Brazil's winning streak to 11 matches. Prior to this, Brazil had been on a roll, securing nine consecutive wins, one of which was a shutout.
The game started with a shock for Brazil, who conceded their first goal in eight matches just 10 minutes in. Colombia's Luis Diaz scored a breathtaking bicycle kick following a cross from Juan Cuadrado. The shot was so clinical and fast that Weverton was left stranded, marking what many consider the finest goal of the competition.
Finding an equalizer proved surprisingly difficult for Brazil, who spent a large portion of the match struggling to convert their dominance into goals. Despite controlling the ball and creating several openings, they were repeatedly thwarted by a Colombian side that eventually retreated into a purely defensive posture to protect their lead.
The deadlock finally broke with 12 minutes left, though not without drama. Neymar's pass inadvertently struck referee Nestor Pitana; while the Colombian defenders stopped, expecting a drop ball, Pitana played on. Brazil capitalized immediately: Lucas Paqueta found Renan Lodi, whose cross was headed home by Roberto Firmino past David Ospina. On a personal note, Ospina reached a milestone in this match, tying Carlos Valderrama's record for the most appearances for the Colombian men's national team with 111 games.
The Colombian squad was furious over the goal, but after a VAR review, Pitana upheld the decision. It was a surprising lapse in judgment from a veteran official who had previously refereed the 2018 World Cup final, and the decision fundamentally shifted the game's energy.
Outraged by the call, the Colombian players delayed the restart, resulting in 10 minutes of added time. Brazil continued to pile on the pressure and finally broke through in the dying moments. A Neymar corner found Casemiro, who headed the ball past a disorganized Colombian defense to seal the win. With this result, Brazil has already secured a spot in the Quarterfinals with a perfect nine points. Colombia follows them with four points, leaving Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela to fight for the remaining two playoff spots.
Brazil had already qualified for the Quarterfinal with nine points from three games, now Colombia has joined them with four points. Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela are eyeing the last two spots from the group. The top four teams will move to the playoff stage.