Brazil winger Vinicius Junior was impressed with the team’s display as they secured a 1-0 win over Paraguay to book their spot in next year’s FIFA World Cup tournament.
Vinicius Junior, 24, scored the only goal of the game to give Carlo Ancelotti a first win as Selecao head coach in his home debut.
As it happened
Ancelotti who had made his debut in the dugout last Thursday in a 0-0 draw at Ecuador, made several changes to the lineup, with the likes of Raphinha and Gabriel Martinelli making a return.
Read this: Antony bids emotional farewell to Real Betis
Raphinha had the first sight of goal in the early exchanges, his brilliant shot saved by Fernandez in the visitors goal.
On the stroke of halftime, Manchester United’s new addition Matheus Cunha delivered a low cross into the box for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior to slot into the net for the Selecao’s first goal under Ancelotti.
Brazil delivered a commanding and composed second half performance to seal out the victory, although the margin should have been more.
The five-time World champions secured qualification for next year’s event in the United States, Canada and Mexico with the win, becoming the only country to have qualified for every edition of the FIFA World Cup.
Ancelotti’s side move up to third in the Conmebol qualifying table with 25 points, 10 behind first-placed Argentina with two games remaining.
What Vinicius said
“I’m very happy with today’s result. We needed to win at home for our fans too and qualify for the World Cup, which was our goal,” Vinicius said.
Check this out: Ancelotti becomes Brazil head coach
“Now [Ancelotti] will have more time to work, to see what he can improve. Today wasn’t one of our best games, but the important thing in qualifying is to win and prepare well for the World Cup.”
When is the FIFA World Cup?
The biggest footballing event in the world is scheduled to take place between June 11 and July 19, 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
