Brazil booked their place at the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Paraguay in São Paulo, Carlo Ancelotti’s first victory as Selecão head coach.
Vinícius Júnior struck just before half-time after good work from Matheus Cunha and Raphinha, sealing Brazil’s sixth straight home win against Paraguay.
Ancelotti, seeking a reaction after a goalless debut against Ecuador, made three changes, including recalling Raphinha. But Brazil again lacked sharpness in attack and created few clear chances.
Cunha missed a golden opportunity before setting up Vinícius for the breakthrough. After the break, Bruno Guimarães and Raphinha forced good saves from Gatito Fernández, but the scoreline stayed tight.
Paraguay threatened late on through Júnior Alonso but couldn’t find an equaliser. Despite defeat, their first in ten qualifiers they remain close to qualification and need just one more point from two games.
