Brazil sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a narrow 1–0 victory over Paraguay in São Paulo.
The result marked the Seleção’s first win under new manager Carlo Ancelotti, who took charge after last week’s disappointing goalless draw with Ecuador.
Winger Raphinha returned to the line-up, fresh from 56 goal contributions in 57 appearances for Barcelona this season, and brought renewed pace and direction to Brazil’s attacking unit.
The home side dominated possession from the outset and showed more intensity in the opening 15 minutes than in the entire Ecuador fixture.
Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior threatened early, forcing Paraguay into defensive retreat. Brazil’s forward line, however, struggled to convert possession into clear chances, with the final ball repeatedly breaking down in the box.
The breakthrough arrived moments before the half-time whistle. Matheus Cunha delivered a low cross that evaded the Paraguayan backline, and Vinícius Júnior reacted sharply to tap in his seventh international goal.
The crowd erupted as Brazil finally found the net after nearly 135 minutes of goalless football.
Brazil maintained their grip on the game after the restart. Ancelotti’s men kept up the pressure with quick passing and aggressive wing play, but could not convert further chances.
Despite their dominance and multiple shots on goal, Brazil were unable to add to their lead, leaving the outcome uncertain until the final whistle.
The victory pushed Brazil to third in the CONMEBOL qualifying table on 25 points, guaranteeing a spot at the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.
The Seleção remain the only nation to qualify for every edition of the World Cup since its inception in 1930, preserving a proud record in Ancelotti’s second match in charge.
