Brazil v Peru: Casemiro not underestimating Peru

Real Madrid and Brazil midfielder Casemiro would love Brazil to thrash Peru again in Sunday's Copa America final – but admits it is almost certain not to happen.

The midfielder opened the scoring at Arena Corinthians as Tite's side demolished Peru 5-0 in their final group game of this year's tournament.

The victory was Brazil's 31st in 44 meetings with Peru in all competitions and extended their record against them on home soil to 13 wins in 17. Indeed, Ricardo Gareca's side have not even managed a goal in their most recent four away games against the Selecao.

That said, Peru were the last team to defeat Brazil in the Copa America in their own country, way back in the semi-finals of 1975, when they prevailed 3-1.

And Casemiro, a winner of two trophies with the Brazil Under-20s but yet to find success with the senior team, is eager not to underestimate their opponents, who defeated Chile 3-0 in the last four.

"I've played in other finals; I think it's the first with Brazil," he said, as per Globoesporte. "Finals aren't played – finals are won. And we're working towards a win, although with a lot of respect towards our opponents.

"They knocked out two big teams, Uruguay and Chile – we can't forget that. They have the respect of all of us players.

"We shouldn't expect a thrashing. I hope it's like that, but we know it won't be."

Peru's Chamber of Tourism expects 30,000 people to travel for the final in Rio de Janeiro, even though only 5,000 are expected inside the Maracana.

Big screens will also televise the game back at home as Peru go in search of their first continental triumph since 1975, which was also the last time they reached this stage.

Edison Flores is expected to be fully fit after an injury scare but it is Paolo Guerrero who it will be hoped can lead his side to glory on what will represent his 100th cap.

"I respect Brazil very much. I'm happy to face a final against Brazil, a country for which I have a lot of respect," he told Sport TV.

"They'll give all their effort for the cup, so it'll be a very difficult, very tough game."

Brazil – Roberto Firmino

The Liverpool striker has had a hand in more goals (five) than any other player at the Copa America. Given he got a goal and an assist in the previous meeting with Peru, he will have every reason to feel confident ahead of the final.

Peru – Paolo Guerrero

Captain and soon-to-be centurion of the Peru national team, Guerrero will be a rallying point for his team when under pressure and will need to make the most of whatever scoring opportunities come his way. It should be quite the occasion for the 35-year-old.