SAN FRANCISCO, October 14, (THEWILL) – Brazilian superstar striker Neymar scored twice from the spot in Lima and once in added time as Brazil twice came from behind to secure all three points in the World Cup qualifier match against Peru.
Peru began the match by imposing their aggressive style of play on proceedings. It was immediately rewarding as André Carrillo, right winger for Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, scored with a volley from the edge of the box in the sixth minute. But Brazil drew the game level in the 28th minute when Neymar earned a first penalty, which the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward calmly converted.
Peru pulled ahead again just before the hour as a Renato Tapia shot was deflected by the substitute defender Rodrigo Caio of Flamengo into his own net. The lead was short-lived because five minutes later Everton striker Richarlison made it 2-2, following a close-range header by Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino.
Brazil’s high pressure resulted in a second penalty in the 81st minute for a Luis Abram foul on Brazilian substitute Everton Ribeiro. Neymar stepped up and gave Brazil the advantage sending Pedro Gallese the wrong way.
The striker completed his hattrick in added time, swooping on a rebound after Everton Ribeiro’s shot hit the post, shortly after the Peru defender Carlos Zambrano was sent off for striking Richarlison in the face while shielding the ball.
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Neymar’s hattrick secured the win for the Selecao and top spot in South American World Cup qualifying CONMEBOL first round. It also makes the PSG man second only to Pelé among Brazil’s all-time leading scorers. The 28-year-old striker now has 64 goals for Brazil which have helped him leapfrog the Brazilian legend Ronaldo de Lima.
He is presently 13 goals behind Pelé’s tally.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
