Seleção Secures 2026 World Cup Spot with Gritty 1-0 Victory over Paraguay
Brazil has officially secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following their narrow 1-0 win against Paraguay.
After a disappointing goalless draw with Ecuador just five days earlier, Brazil took to the field in São Paulo determined to claim their first win under newly appointed manager Carlo Ancelotti. The Seleção's offensive capabilities were significantly enhanced by Raphinha's return, who had contributed to 56 goals for Barcelona in 57 appearances during the previous season.
The Brazilian squad controlled the game from the outset, showing more promise in the first quarter-hour than they had throughout their entire previous match against La Tricolor. Both Raphinha and Vinícius Júnior were immediately involved, forcing Paraguay to defend desperately against two of the world's premier wingers.
However, Ancelotti's attacking lineup struggled to deliver the finishing touch needed in the final third. Just as it seemed the hosts would enter halftime without scoring, Matheus Cunha delivered an excellent cross that found Vinícius Júnior, who tapped in what was only his seventh international goal.
The momentum continued after the break as Brazil appeared completely transformed compared to their previous performance where they managed only two shots on target in Ancelotti's coaching debut. Despite maintaining control and creating numerous dangerous opportunities, the Seleção couldn't add to their tally.
Nevertheless, Vinícius Júnior's solitary goal was sufficient to guarantee Brazil's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ancelotti's squad now sits third in the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points, confirming their participation in the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer. The Seleção maintains their unique distinction as the only nation to have qualified for every edition of the World Cup.
View the detailed player ratings from the match below.
Brazil Player Ratings vs. Paraguay (4-2-3-1)
*Ratings provided by FotMob*
Position / Player | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
GK: Alisson | 7.1 |
RB: Vanderson | 8 |
CB: Marquinhos | 7.4 |
CB: Alexsandro | 7.3 |
LB: Alex Sandro | 6.7 |
DM: Bruno Guimarães | 8.2 |
DM: Casemiro | 7.4 |
RW: Raphinha | 7.7 |
AM: Matheus Cunha | 7.7 |
LW: Gabriel Martinelli | 7.2 |
ST: Vinícius Júnior | 7.5 |
SUB: Lucas Beraldo (74' for Sandro) | 6.2 |
SUB: Richarlison (78' for Vinícius Júnior) | 5.5 |
SUB: Gerson (79' for Cunha) | 6.3 |
SUB: Danilo (89' for Vanderson) | N/A |
Subs not used: Bento (GK), Hugo Souza (GK), Léo Ortiz, Wesley, Andrey Santos, Éderson, Antony, Estêvão.