The first half started slowly with both sides trying to get comfortable in the great atmosphere supplied by the Belem crowd. Argentina did look dangerous on the break though with Cruzeiro star Montillo looking particulary lively, pulling the strings going forward.
It was down to his movement why Argentina had several openings in the first fifteen minutes. The away side were targeting the right side of the Brazil defence and were causing Rever and Cortes all sorts of problems.
Fernandez found himself in behind the defence several times but was unable to supply to final ball on more than three occasions.
It was from this that Brazil began to take control of the match with their first serious effort on the 20th minute. Borges, who had an impressive debut, held the ball up well and was able to feed in Neymar who dodged the efforts of several defenders and his low shot towards the left-hand post was well saved.
Brazil’s best chance came ten minutes before half-time when Liverpool target Lucas Moura burst through the midfield, skipping past the defence like they weren’t even there and he played to ball right to Borges.
The Santos striker was able to compose himself and deliver a low cross towards Neymar at the back post, but he failed to get a touch on the ball and he seemingly missed an open goal.
With the scores still level at the break, Lucas Moura and Neymar struck to finally break the deadlock in the tie and give Brazil the victory they had expected.
The Seleção started stronger and had the game’s first opportunity, when Neymar drew a good save from Orion with a shot from the edge of the area.
Their opponents could not match them for technical ability and instead seemed intent on fouling the Brazilian players, with Borges in particular coming in for some rough treatment.
Chances were scarce in the first half, but it was Brazil who took the lead on 53 minutes, when Lucas Moura broke at pace at calmly slotted in across the goalkeeper.
They secured the win with 15 minutes remaining as Neymar got on the end of a low cross to bundle in from close range.
Overall Brazil deserved to win what was a cagey affair and the home fans will no doubt be pleased to have witnessed a win over Argentina and the winning of a trophy.
