Alisson Becker pulled off an incredible save to deny Lionel Messi from a free-kick during Brazil’s 2-0 victory.
Brazil beat Argentina 2-0 to qualify for the first Copa America final since 2007. The Selecao were not thoroughly dominant, but managed to shut down the dangerous Argentine attack.
Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino put Brazil in the driving seat, with twenty minutes in the normal time. However, the white and blue struggled mentally and physically after the lead got extended through the latter in the second half.
Albeit the scoreline, Argentina worked out well and were unlucky as they hit the crossbar twice through Aguero and Messi. Philippe Coutinho had an excellent chance early in the second half, but the Brazilian failed to hit the target.
When the scoreline was 1-0 in the 65th minute, Lionel Messi took a free-kick from outside the penalty box. The Argentine has been converting free-kicks like penalties over the last year and even beat Alisson Becker during the first leg of the Champions League Semifinals.
The same output was expected, inevitably. Messi eyed the top corner and firmly stuck to the same task. However, Alisson Becker’s impeccable position saved Brazil’s day, once again. The shot-stopper was well positioned and read the forward’s shot with a huge jump to catch the ball without making any fuss.
It was an excellent stop, but Alisson made it look effortless.
Alisson Becker Save off Lionel Messi from Free-kick
Watch the video of Alisson Becker making an incredible save to deny Lionel Messi from free kick.
Alisson Becker denying Lionel Messi last night. ❌⚽️ pic.twitter.com/duDUtihQ0a
— Anfield HQ (@AnfieldHQ) July 3, 2019
Alisson’s positioning is his best attribute. Unlike other keepers, he rarely flies to make saves. Save against Napoli would warrant as an example as he denied Milik from close range with superior positioning.
Liverpool’s 65 million has surely paid off as he played a huge part in the Reds’ Champions League success. During the final against Tottenham Hotspur, the Brazilian made eight saves and kept Spurs’ attackers in check. He became the first goalkeeper since 2010 to keep a clean sheet in the Champions League final. Additionally, he has not conceded a goal in nine games for his club and country.
