Jesus Apologises For Copa America Final Histrionics

By Max Wise

Brazil striker Gabriel Jesus has apologised for the histrionics that followed his red card against Peru in the Copa America final at the Maracana stadium on Sunday.

Jesus put in an impressive showing in the final, setting up Everton for the opener before restoring Brazil’s lead on the stroke of half-time following Paolo Guerrero’s 44th minute equalizer for Peru from the penalty spot.

The 22-year-old’s luck however turned out for the worse in the second half as he received a second booking with twenty minutes remaining for a clumsy foul on Peru defender Carlos Zambrano.

The Video Assistant Referee(VAR) cabin and a water bottle on the side of the pitch bore the brunt of Jesus’ anger, and the Manchester City striker was seen crying in the tunnel while voicing out his frustrations towards the match officials.

Though Jesus is adamant referee Andres Tobar Vargas erred in giving him his marching off orders, he has owned up to his actions and duly apologised.

"I want to apologise to the people who were nearby," he said. "It was a moment of anger, right? It was a mixture of emotions and anger, from my point of view, at the red card.

"I could have hurt someone and I'm glad I didn't. I was wanting to help the team and that moment could have hurt.

"We were winning, playing a good game, and the referee makes the wrong decision. But I need to grow up, too.

"I do not want to shut people up, I do not want any of this. I am aware of my quality, my football, what brought me here today. Criticism, as well as praise, will come at all times.

"I give my maximum on the field, knowing that sometimes things take other routes but I'm happy with the tournament. From the first day in camp, everyone was happy, focused."

Brazil overcame Jesus’ sending off to complete a 3-1 victory, winning their ninth Copa America title in the process.