Brazil Secures World Cup Berth with Ancelotti’s First Win
Ancelotti's Reign Begins with Crucial Victory and World Cup Qualification
- Brazil has officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup
- The decisive goal came in the second half from Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr
- This win follows Ancelotti's debut
Brazil has officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup, marking a significant milestone for new manager Carlo Ancelotti as he earns his first victory at the helm. The five-time world champions defeated Paraguay 1-0 in a South American qualifying match.
The decisive goal came in the second half from Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr, who capitalized on excellent build-up play from Manchester United-bound playmaker Matheus Cunha to score from close range. This win follows Ancelotti’s debut, a goalless draw against Ecuador last week, and ensures Brazil maintains its record of qualifying for every World Cup tournament.
“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.”
Elsewhere in World Cup Qualifiers
In other South American qualifying action, World Cup holders Argentina played out an entertaining 1-1 draw with Colombia in Buenos Aires. Liverpool winger Luis Diaz opened the scoring for Colombia with a brilliant individual effort, weaving past three defenders before slotting the ball past Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina faced a challenge when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off with 20 minutes remaining for a high boot on Colombia’s Kevin Castano. However, Lionel Messi’s side found an equalizer nine minutes from time through Lyon’s Thiago Almada. This result leaves Colombia four points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela.
Meanwhile, Ecuador, Argentina’s closest rivals, also secured their spot at the 2026 tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States after a 0-0 draw away at Peru.
