Brazil was held to a 0-0 draw by Costa Rica on Monday night, in their Group D Copa America opener.
Although Brazil dominated play and outshot Costa Rica 18-2, the Seleção was held scoreless by a defense led by goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira, who made three saves while recording the team’s fourth consecutive clean sheet.
Brazil had a goal by Marquinhos disallowed in the first half after a lengthy VAR check, but the team known for decades of sublime offensive play never got closer to a score in front of a lively crowd of 67,158 dominated by their yellow-clad fans at SoFi Stadium.
The result left Colombia on top of Group D after its 2-1 victory over Paraguay.
Brazil has won the Copa America nine times, but its current transitional squad led by Real Madrid stars Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo got off to a discouraging start.
Brazil coach Dorival Júnior said the result wasn’t bad noting his team’s wide advantages in possession and chances.
“I believe that in context, it was a well-played game,” Dorival said “We passed the ball well and we created good opportunities. We weren’t happy with the finishes, I agree.
“But in general, I think we presented very positive things. Nowadays it will be like this. We have to find ways and solutions to score. We’re always working on it, every moment.”
