Star forward Neymar netted a penalty and created a second as hosts Brazil eased to a 3-0 victory over Venezuela on Sunday in the opening match of the 2021 Copa America.
Brazil took the lead on 23 minutes when Richarlison flicked on a Neymar corner that deflected into Marquinhos’s path inside the six-yard box, allowing the centre-back to bundle home.
Richarlison had a goal ruled out for offside while Neymar incredibly fired wide from 12 yards out as Brazil threatened to put the game to bed before half-time.
It was more of the same after the break as substitute Alex Sandro from distance and Richarlison with a header both shot over the bar.
Neymar somehow failed to turn home a cross-cum-shot from Gabriel Jesus from three yards out but on 64 minutes he doubled the lead from the penalty spot.
Yohan Cumana clumsily brought down Danilo in the box and Neymar sent Graterol the wrong way from 12 yards.
The hosts took their foot off the gas but Neymar kept probing and was denied a second by Graterol following a mazy run and shot from inside the box.
Neymar then created the third, rounding Graterol before crossing for Gabriel to chest home from barely a yard out.