Brazil book 2026 FIFA World Cup berth with 1-0 win over Paraguay

Brazil secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup in North America with a 1-0 win over Paraguay in Sao Paulo on Tuesday.

Vinícius Junior netted the decisive goal in the 43rd minute, sealing victory for the five-time champions.

The win marked a successful start to new coach Carlo Ancelotti's tenure, as Brazil — the only nation to have qualified for every World Cup — once again booked their place on football’s grandest stage.


Defending champions Argentina, already assured of a spot at next year's World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, were held to a 1-1 draw by Colombia.

Meanwhile, Brazil climbed to second in the South American standings with 25 points — 10 behind Argentina but, importantly, more than six points clear of seventh place with just two matches remaining.

The top six teams in the region earn direct qualification for the expanded 48-team World Cup, ensuring Brazil’s safe passage to the finals.

Brazil set to make their 23rd appearance in next year's tournament jointly co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Ancelotti, who celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, vowed to implement tactical adjustments for a more attacking display at the NeoQuimica Arena.

The 66-year-old Italian manager faced criticism from supporters following the goalless draw against Ecuador last Thursday, where his side adopted a defensive approach.

The introduction of Gabriel Martinelli in place of midfielder Gerson proved influential. The returning Raphinha, back from suspension, consistently troubled Paraguay's defence.

Brazil's sole goal resulted from a defensive error by Paraguay, with Cunha delivering a low cross that Brazil's new number 10 converted with precision.

Despite the narrow scoreline, the home side displayed significantly more attacking intent compared to their previous World Cup qualifying fixtures.

Earlier on Tuesday, Uruguay advanced towards World Cup qualification with a convincing 2-0 win against Venezuela at the Estadio Centenario, ending their four-match winless streak in South American qualifiers.

The home side controlled the opening half but found it challenging to penetrate Venezuela's disciplined defensive setup until Rodrigo Aguirre broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute, converting Maxi Araujo's corner with a header at the far post.

Two minutes after the restart, Giorgian De Arrascaeta secured the victory with a brilliant strike into the top-left corner, ensuring Marcelo Bielsa's team at minimum secured an inter-confederation playoff position.