Brazil claimed continental glory 22 years ago, coming from behind late on to edge a thrilling final against Argentina at the Estadio Nacional in Lima.
Kily Gonzalez gave Argentina an early lead from the penalty spot, before Luisao headed Brazil level either side of half time.
Cesar Delgado restored Argentina’s lead late on, appearing to have won the tournament for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, only for Adriano, the competition’s outstanding player, to snatch a stunning equaliser deep into stoppage time and force the match to penalties.
Brazil held their nerve in the shootout, with Julio Cesar, Diego and Juan converting for the Selecao, while Andres D’Alessandro and Gabriel Heinze missed for Argentina, sealing a 4-2 win on penalties for Carlos Alberto Parreira’s side. Adriano finished the tournament as top scorer with seven goals.
It capped a remarkable run for Brazil, who also won their semi-final against Uruguay on penalties, becoming the first side in the competition’s history to win both the semi-final and final via a shootout.
Photo: REUTERS/Juan Carlos Ulate RR/HB
