Sao Paulo, June 18

Brazil changed half of its starting line-up to face Peru in its second Copa America match and still cruised to a 4-0 victory. Defender Alex Sandro, Neymar, midfielder Everton Ribeiro and striker Richarlison scored the goals in Rio de Janeiro.

It was the Selecao’s ninth consecutive victory, and another display that suggests the tournament hosts are the favourites to defend their title. The result puts Brazil atop the Group B standings with six points. Colombia are two points behind after their 0-0 draw with Venezuela.

Brazil have won 42, drawn 10 and lost only four matches under Tite.

Neymar scored his 68th goal for Brazil, surpassing former striker Ronaldo as Brazil’s second top goalscorer behind Pele. Neymar reached the mark in 107 games. He is now just nine behind Pele, who scored 77 goals in 92 games.— AP

Copa’s Covid cases are on the rise

Sao Paulo: Brazil’s health ministry said 66 people connected with the Copa America soccer tournament had contracted Covid, an increase of 13 infections from the previous day. The ministry said in a statement on Thursday that 6,521 tests were conducted, with 27 players and staffers of the 10 tournament teams infected plus 39 workers. Also, the Bolivian Football Association said two players tested positive, defender Oscar Ribera and forward Jaume Cuellar. AP