Brazil moved on to the final of the Copa America for the first time since 2007 after defeating Argentina 2-0 at the Mineirão.

The Selecao were well-prepared for an Argentina side that seemed to finally be gelling around their star player Lionel Messi. 36-year-old Dani Alves created the first goal, with a dazzling display of flicks and a no-look pass to set up Brazil’s first goal of the game.

But Argentina stood their ground, creating their own chances. Sergio Aguero hit the bar off a Messi free-kick. The maestro himself also hit the woodwork. But Brazilian goalkeeper Allison kept out the rest of Argentina’s attack, staging his ninth straight clean sheet for club and country.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzdUDWcg05l/

Roberto Firmino scored Brazil’s second goal in the 71st minute off a counter-attack set up by what should’ve been a foul on Sergio Aguero at the other end. Firmino has been involved in more goals, 2 goals plus 3 assists, than any other player in the tournament. Given the combination of Jesus and Firmino, the Brazilian fans have no reason to miss Neymar.

Messi’s wait for a trophy with continues

“Referees gave so many stupid fouls in this but today wasn’t consulted once,” said Messi on ‘s second strike. “This should be looked into and I hope Conmebol do something with these referees who unbalance the pitch by favoring a team.”

Argentina’s defeat marks yet another trophyless ending for Messi who’s competed at nine senior international tournaments to-date. He managed to snag only one goal in this year’s Copa America.

However, he can take pride in a string of recent performances that finally saw an Argentina side look like a cohesive unit. His team was unlucky not to get a goal in the semi-final.

All credit must be given to a revived and strong Brazilian side who now look like the team to beat, even moreso on their home soil.