While Liverpool fans would usually be delighted to see Philippe Coutinho running rings round opposition defences, their playmaker's thrilling man of the match performance against Haiti, in Orlando, last night, may be cause for concern.
The former Inter Milan youngster helped himself to a hat-trick, but Reds fans may fear that, with such prolific form, he's only more likely to heighten Barcelona's already firm interest in him. Having lost Luis Suarez to the Catalan giants two years ago, it's a transfer saga the Anfield club could do without.
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Brazil ran out 7-1 winners over a hapless Haiti, who were eliminated as a result, to move top of Group B. Renato Augusto (2), Gabriel and Lucas Lima rounded out the scoring, with James Marcelin netting the Haitans' consolation, as the 'Selecao' moved ahead of Ecuador and Peru, who drew 2-2.
Speaking after the match, Brazil coach Dunga was full of praise for Coutinho who, before the Haiti game had only one international goal to his name.
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"We have been encouraging Coutinho during training to be the player he is in Liverpool, take advantage of his opportunities, and he did that for us. He has been acquiring more trust and belief in himself and taking more risks. That is what we wanted."
So far, it doesn't look as if Neymar's absence from the tournament is affecting Brazil particularly negatively.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Liverpool, Football, Philippe Coutinho, Copa America Centenario, Copa America, Brazil
