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Sports Desk, June 11, 2025 : Brazil clinched their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Paraguay in the 16th round of South American qualifiers at São Paulo’s Neo Química Arena. The solitary goal by Vinícius Júnior ensured Brazil became the second CONMEBOL team, after Argentina, to confirm their World Cup qualification.
The match’s decisive moment came in the 43rd minute when Matheus Cunha drove down the right flank and delivered a precise pass to Vinícius, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. This goal marked Brazil’s first under the guidance of coach Carlo Ancelotti. Despite an earlier missed opportunity in the 11th minute, Vinícius redeemed himself with the match-winner.
Brazil dominated much of the game, with Bruno Guimarães nearly doubling the lead in the second half, only to be denied by an outstanding save from Paraguay’s goalkeeper Roberto Fernández. Paraguay fought back, with Juan Cáceres creating a chance with a scissor kick in the first half, but Brazil’s defense, led by Casemiro, Marquinhos, and Alisson, stood firm.
The match saw several fouls and yellow cards, with Vinícius, Guimarães, and one other Brazilian player, alongside Paraguay’s Junior Alonso, booked. Despite Paraguay’s efforts, including tactical substitutions by coach Gustavo Alfaro, they couldn’t breach Brazil’s solid backline.
This victory strengthens Brazil’s position as a formidable contender for the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Brazil’s next challenge is a clash against Uruguay, where Ancelotti’s side will aim to maintain their winning momentum and solidify their standing in the CONMEBOL qualifiers.
AI/MR
