Brazilian striker Romario (R) falls after colliding with Peruvian goalkeeper Miguel Miranda during their Copa America semi-final.

SANTA CRUZ, June 27: Brazil steamrollered Peru's inexperienced team 7-0 yesterday to reach the final of the Copa America.

The ruthlessly efficient world champions were ahead after just two minutes and had taken a 4-0 lead by half-time in an embarrassingly one-sided contest.

Midfielder Leonardo, who scored two goals, was inspirational for Brazil, while striker Romario scored twice before limping off injured in the 70th minute after appearing to pull a muscle. He is expected to miss Sunday's final.

Ronaldo was the only let-down for Brazil. He got himself booked for a niggly off-the-ball challenge in the first half, missed an open goal early in the second and was eventually substituted. Their other goals came from Denilson, Flavio Conceicao and Djalminha.

Peru, who are involved in the marathon South American World Cup qualifying tournament, had brought what was effectively their under-23 side to the competition to prevent their top players being overwhelmed by too many fixtures.

The experimental side had gone beyond all expectations by beating Uruguay and Argentina on their way to yesterday's semi-final but they had clearly bitten off more than they could chew in trying to take on the full-strength world champions.

Brazil, attempting to win the tournament for the first time outside their own country, face a stiffer task in Sunday's final when they play hosts Bolivia in La Paz, at 3,600 metres above sea level.

``It will be a clash of giants,'' said Brazil coach Mario Zagallo.

``We arrived here tired after our tour to Europe and we have achieved more than I have expected. I will leave here with my head held high as I always have done when I have been in charge of the yellow and green team.''

Brazil, who have won all five games and scored 18 goals on their way to the final, were tough in the tackle, defended in depth and lethal on the break.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.