Brazil into q’finals sans Neymar

SANTIAGO, Chile — Playing without suspended star Neymar, Brazil defeated Venezuela 2-1 Sunday in its final group game to reach the Copa America quarterfinals.

Thiago Silva scored with a volley in the 9th minute off a perfect delivery from a corner by Robinho — Neymar’s replacement. Roberto Firmino added the second in the 52nd, chipping in a cross from Willian.

The loss in Group C eliminated Venezuela, which got an 84th-minute goal from Miku.

The final match in qualifying set up the quarterfinal pairings with Chile vs. Uruguay on Wednesday, Bolivia vs. Peru on Thursday, Argentina vs. Colombia on Friday and Saturday’s match pitting Brazil against Paraguay.

Barcelona’s Neymar was banned for four games after a 1-0 loss to Colombia on Wednesday. Angry with the defeat, Neymar kicked a ball at a Colombia player, and also appeared to head-butt another player.

CONMEBOL, the governing body of South American football, said the referee’s report also showed he insulted the referee after the match and grabbed him by the arms.

Asked about Neymar’s absence, Brazil coach Dunga replied: “Any team would miss Neymar, but when you don’t have him, you can’t feel sorry for yourself.”

Brazil seemed to play better without Neymar, at least early in the first half. Robinho and Philipe Coutinho, who replaced midfielder Fred, gave Brazil more attacking.

After scoring, Silva raced to the sideline and waved to Neymar, who was sitting in the stands — wrapped up under a blue winter cap — and jeered by Venezuela fans on a chilly night in the South American winter.

Dunga called the quarterfinal with Paraguay a “very tricky match” and likened it to “a final.” “We have to respect everyone, but

we can fear nobody.” AP