A dramatic last-minute goal from Vinicius Júnior handed Brazil a crucial 2-1 victory over Colombia in a South American World Cup qualifier on Thursday (March 20), easing pressure on the team and its supporters.
A draw would have dropped Brazil to sixth in the standings, but Vinicius’ long-range effort ensured the five-time world champions moved up to second place, trailing Argentina. With six teams guaranteed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, the win was a vital boost for coach Dorival Júnior ahead of next week's clash with Argentina.
Argentina remains atop the table with 25 points from 12 matches, four ahead of Brazil, which has 21 points from 13 games. The reigning world champions, however, will be without Lionel Messi for their upcoming fixture against Uruguay before facing Brazil next Tuesday (March 25). Argentina had edged out Brazil 1-0 at the Maracanã Stadium in their last encounter in 2023.
Brazil will be without Bruno Guimarães and Gabriel Magalhães for the Argentina match due to suspensions. Additionally, goalkeeper Alisson and Colombia's Davinson Sánchez were taken off due to concussion protocols and will miss their respective teams' next qualifiers. Colombia is set to host Paraguay in its next match.
Brazil showed greater intensity than in previous matches, displaying speed and technical skill. An early penalty conversion by Raphinha, following a foul on Vinicius Júnior, put the hosts in control. However, despite dominating possession, Brazil failed to capitalize on its lead in front of 70,000 home fans.
Colombia equalized in the 41st minute when Luis Díaz finished off a cross from James Rodríguez, punishing a defensive lapse by Brazil. The visitors had gained possession near the edge of the box after substitute Joelinton, who replaced the injured Gerson, lost the ball.
Both teams struggled for accuracy in the second half until Vinicius Júnior unleashed a long-range strike that deflected off Jefferson Lerma and found the net past Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
“This goal was really important—we deserved the win. I deserved this goal too for all the work I’ve put in,” said Vinicius, who netted his first goal of the qualifying campaign. “It’s a mix of relief and happiness.”
Coach Dorival Júnior highlighted the significance of the victory. “It was key because of where we are at this moment. We are still building, and although things aren’t perfect, we’re improving step by step.”
Colombia’s coach, Néstor Lorenzo, expressed frustration with the result. “Once again, we played a great match but left with nothing. We deserved more.” Colombia sits in sixth place with 19 points.
PARAGUAY STRENGTHENS QUALIFICATION HOPES
Paraguay extended its unbeaten run under coach Gustavo Alfaro with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Chile in Asunción. The hosts dominated, limiting Chile’s scoring chances, and secured victory through Omar Alderete’s close-range finish following a well-executed set-piece play.
Paraguay, now fourth with 20 points, bolstered its chances of reaching the World Cup, while Chile remains last in the standings with just nine points.
Elsewhere, Peru triumphed 3-1 over Bolivia. Andy Polo struck in the 37th minute, Paolo Guerrero doubled the lead before halftime, and Edison Flores sealed the win in the 82nd minute. Bolivia's Miguel Terceros pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 58th.
Despite the loss, Bolivia remains in seventh place with 13 points, keeping its hopes alive for an intercontinental playoff spot. Peru, with 10 points, is currently in ninth place.
Bd-Pratidin English/ARK
