RIO DE JANEIRO, July 7 (Xinhua) -- Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus scored in the 48th minute to hand the hosts a 2-1 first-half lead in the Copa America final against Peru on Sunday.
Gremio forward Everton had opened the scoring at the Maracana stadium by rifling in a first-time effort before Peru captain Paolo Guerrero converted from the penalty spot. Jesus restored Brazil's lead by slotting in a cool finish after a counter-attack.
Both sides entered the match without changes to their starting lineups. Carlos Zambrano, Andre Carrillo and Edison Flores, who did not begin in Peru's 5-0 loss to Brail in the group stage, started their third match in succession for Ricardo Gareca's side. For Brazil, Alex Sandro retained his place ahead of the fit-again Filipe Luis after the Juventus left-back's impressive display in the 2-0 semifinal defeat of Argentina.
Peru looked the most dangerous side early, attacking the ball with more urgency and threatening to suffocate Brazil with their high defensive line.
The hosts netted against the run of play in the 15th minute when a Jesus cross from the right found Everton, who left goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with no chance with his fizzing shot from 12 yards. The 23-year-old's strike made him the tournament's leading scorer with three goals
The goal changed the tone of the match as Brazil began to dominate possession and foray forward with more authority. They should have doubled their lead in the 37th minute when Firmino latched onto an Alex Sandro cross only to head his effort over the bar.
However Peru regathered their composure and were awarded a penalty in the 41st minute. Referee Roberto Tobar consulted the video assistant referee before ruling that Thiago Silva handled the ball following a Christian Cueva cross. Guerrero sent Alisson the wrong way as he also took his personal goal tally this tournament to three goals.
The five-time world champions wrested back the lead again when Arthur dispossessed Yoshimar Yotun and rolled a deft pass to Jesus, who made no mistake with an angled finish just before halftime.
Brazil are aiming for their ninth Copa America title and first since 2007 when they beat Argentina 3-0 in the final in Venezuela. Peru won the last of their two titles in 1975.
