BRASILIA: The controversial Copa America kicked off with latecomer hosts Brazil beating a Covid-wrecked Venezuela 3-0 in the opening match at the Mané Garrincha stadium in Brasilia.

Pandemic-battered Brazil only took over the postponed Copa two weeks ago after the withdrawal of original cohosts Colombia and Argentina.

The goals were delivered by Marquinhos after a corner (23 minutes), Neymar (64th, penalty) and Gabriel Jesus (89th).

Brazil’s next match is on Friday against Peru, whom they beat in the 2019 final.

Brazil: Alisson – Danilo, Militao, Marquinhos, Renan Lodi (Alex Sandro 46) – Casemiro, Fred (Fabinho 86) – Richarlison (Gabriel Barbosa 65), Paquetá (Everton 46), Neymar – Gabriel Jesus (Vinicius 85).

Venezuela: Graterol – Alex González (Ronald Hernández 90), Cumana, Adrián Martínez, Magician – Manzano (Celis 77), Martínez, Moreno, Mantía, Casseres (Edson Castillo 84) – Aristeguieta (Córdova 77).

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