Brazil eliminated from Copa America after Peru's controversial game-wining goal
The United States will face Ecuador in the quarterfinals of the Copa America after an extraordinary Sunday evening that saw Brazil controversially eliminated from the tournament.
Having unexpectedly clinched top spot in Group A on Saturday night, the Americans were able to sit back and watch events unfold. Brazil’s shocking 1-0 defeat to Peru at Gillette Stadium meant the five-time World Cup winner was bounced out in the group.
That resulted in Peru finishing top of Group B – they will now face Colombia in the quarters. Jurgen Klinsmann’s USA will have the support of a patriotic home crowd when it meets Ecuador in Seattle on Thursday. Ecuador defeated Haiti 4-0 on Sunday to clinch second in Group B and a place in the last eight.
Brazil was one of the favorites to win the competition, but must now return home with the future of its head coach Dung very much in doubt.
However, Raul Ruidiaz’s winning goal for Peru will live on in infamy. Ruidiaz turned a cross from the right into the Brazil net after 75 minutes, but appeared to do so with the assistance of his right forearm.
Referee Andres Cunha from Uruguay took several minutes to confirm his decision, during which time he appeared to be requesting assistance from fellow officials through his headset, even though video replays are not allowed in international soccer.
Cunha eventually awarded the goal, sparking mass fury from the Brazil players, who were subsequently unable to fight their way back into the game.
“I am very happy with regard to reaching the quarterfinals,” Ruidiaz said. “The goal was a v fast play. The ball hit me in the thigh.”
Replays indicated differently but for Peru, coming off its first victory against Brazil for 31 years, the celebrations were no less sweet.