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Brazil to Meet Japan in 2019 Toulon Tournament Final After 2-0 Win vs. Ireland

Rob Blanchette@@_Rob_BFeatured ColumnistJune 12, 2019

AVIGNON, FRANCE - JUNE 01:  Auro of Brazil leads the celebrations as Brazil celebrate their victory during the Final of the Toulon Tournament between France and Brazil at the Parc des Sports Avignon on June 1, 2014 in Avignon, France.  (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images)
Christopher Lee/Getty Images

Brazil beat the Republic of Ireland 2-0 at the 2019 Toulon Tournament on Wednesday, booking a spot in the final to play Japan. 

Paulinho's opener gave Brazil the lead after 15 minutes, and Matheus Cunha scored a decisive second after 47 minutes.

The Irish have impressed during their campaign in France, but they could not overcome the Brazilians.

Brazil were quickly out of the gate as Conor Masterson fouled Cunha in the box after three minutes.

However, Douglas Luiz's spot-kick missed the target, with his effort sliding past the wrong side of the post.

Cunha continued to be a menace for the Brazilians in attack, but the Irish created chances through Darragh Leahy and Aaron Connolly.

Brazil's early work paid off after Paulinho linked with Cunha to break the deadlock, which gave the eventual winners control until half-time.

Ireland continued to dig deep in the second half. However, Brazil were always a step ahead of their opponents.

Cunha completed the victory with his fourth of the competition, leading his team to the showcase final on June 15.