With a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in South American qualifiers for the World Cup, Brazil earned Carlo Ancelotti his first managerial victory and qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
After excellent work from new Manchester United attacker Matheus Cunha, Real Madrid striker Vinicius Jr. scored from close range in the second half.
After a 0-0 tie against Ecuador on his debut last week, this victory is Ancelotti’s first and guarantees Brazil a spot in every World Cup.
“We needed to win and qualify for the World Cup,” said Vinicius Jr.
“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.”
Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, and Colombia played off an entertaining 1-1 draw in Buenos Aires.
After going past three defenders and finishing past Emiliano Martinez, Liverpool winger Luis Diaz opened the score with a brilliant solo goal.
Argentina was down to 10 men, when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a high-boot challenge on Colombia’s Kevin Castano with 20 minutes left.
Colombia now leads seventh-place Venezuela by four points after Lionel Messi’s team equalized through Thiago Almada of Lyon nine minutes from the end.
Ecuador, Argentina’s closest rivals, secured their place in the tournament that will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States next summer with a 0-0 draw away to Peru.