Brazil qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in the South American qualifiers, handing Carlo Ancelotti his first win as head coach of the Seleção.
The only goal of the match came in the second half, courtesy of Vinicius Jr, who slotted home from close range after an impressive buildup led by Matheus Cunha, who is expected to join Manchester United this summer.
The result follows a goalless draw against Ecuador in Ancelotti’s debut match last week, and cements Brazil’s unbroken record of qualifying for every World Cup tournament since its inception.
“We needed to win and qualify for the World Cup,” said Vinicius Jr after the game. “Now the coach will have more time to work. Of course, today wasn’t one of our best performances, but the important thing is always to win. Now it’s time to celebrate qualifying.”
Elsewhere, defending World Cup champions Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Colombia in an entertaining clash in Buenos Aires.
Luis Diaz put the visitors ahead with a brilliant solo effort, weaving past three defenders before firing past Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina were reduced to ten men with 20 minutes left after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a straight red card for a dangerous high-footed challenge on Kevin Castaño.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Thiago Almada salvaged a point for the hosts with a late equaliser in the 81st minute. The draw leaves Colombia four points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela in the qualifying standings.
Ecuador also booked their place in the 2026 tournament after securing a goalless draw against Peru in Lima. The result was enough to confirm their qualification alongside Brazil and Argentina for next summer’s competition to be hosted in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.