In a triumph of defensive organisation over attacking intent and flair, Brazil won the Copa America tonight 3-0 versus arch-enemy and serial under-achievers Argentina in Maracaibo, Venezuela.
Arsenal reject Julio Baptista began the scoring, cutting back onto his right foot and rifling an Henry-esque shot into the top corner.
Argentina, clearly the most exciting and – until the final – best team in the competition pressed for an equaliser but Brazil were not without threat and went two up as half-time loomed with an own goal by Roberto Ayala from a Daniel Alves cross.
It was Daniel Alves who ended the game with a well taken finish from a defence splitting ball by the ludicrously haired (and named) Wagner Love.
Robinho finished the tournament as top goalscorer with six.
It should also be noted that David Beckham was on hand to enjoy the celebrations.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Defense wins the day again….sound familiar?
Argentina played the best football during the tournament – that surely counts for something?
Well, there’s the age old debate about defence v attack. In this case, decent defence beat very good (and ultimately brittle) attack. Perhaps all those years when the commentators would say “Brazil, great going forward, a bit suspect at the back” were just them not believing that they could also be strict and organised in defence?
> Argentina played the best football during the tournament – that surely counts for something?
ha ha!