PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil, June 27 -- Gabriel Jesus struck the decisive spot-kick as Brazil advanced to the Copa America semifinals on Thursday by defeating Paraguay 4-3 on penalties here.

Gustavo Gomez had his penalty attempt saved and Derlis Gonzalez sent his effort wide in a dramatic climax at Arena do Gremio in Porto Alegre.

Roberto Firmino was the only Brazil player to miss from the spot while Philippe Coutinho, Marquinhos and Willian joined Jesus in converting their attempts after the scores were locked at 0-0 after the allotted 90 minutes.

The result ended a wretched run of results in this tournament for Brazil against Paraguay, who eliminated the Selecao on penalties in the quarterfinals of the 2011 and 2017 editions.

The victory was nothing less than the hosts deserved after they dominated for long periods, particularly after Fabian Balbuena was sent off just before the hour mark.

Paraguay had goalkeeper Roberto Fernandez to thank for keeping them in the contest as he made a series of fines saves to deny Brazil in the final 30 minutes.

The five-time world champions made just one change to the team that beat Peru 5-0 last Saturday, with Napoli midfielder Allan replacing the suspended Casemiro.

Everton forward Richarlison, who started the first two matches but was an unused substitute against Peru, was ruled out of the match due to illness.

Meanwhile, Peru manager Eduardo Berizzo brought in West Ham United's Balbuena to form part of a five-man defence in a bid to quell Brazil's attacking threat. Midfielder Celso Ortiz and winger Hernan Perez were also brought in for Matias Rojas and Rodrigo Rojas.

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